Honoring Daniel: A Family Support Fund

I am reaching out today with a heavy heart. Our beloved Daniel Vivian, a son, brother, nephew, and cousin, left us far too soon at the young age of 21.

Daniel was the kind of person whose infectious smile could light up a room. This goofy, charismatic young man was passionate about his video games and movies, and had an uncanny ability to find every hidden detail within the Marvel Cinematic Universe. Despite his small stature, often leading people to mistake him for a child, his presence was larger than life. He was fondly remembered at Cheryl's Thrifty Treasures, where he was an early part of its journey.

Daniel was a true lover of the great outdoors. His footprints traced many trails including the paths of the Soberanes Trail in Big Sur, CA, the Billy Goat Trail in the Chesapeake & Ohio Canal National Historic Park, and the majestic California expanses filled with towering Redwoods. His affections weren't just reserved for nature; he also held a fondness for Dr. Pepper and indulged in sweet treats. Daniel delighted in holiday traditions, one of his favorites being the assembly of graham cracker "gingerbread" houses, always ensuring they were secreted with an overabundance of candy.

Daniel's greatest love was his family. He had a strong bond with his siblings and cousins, especially Caty, Lucy, and Aron. They spent countless hours together, playing make-believe, watching movies, and simply enjoying each other's company. With his older siblings, he engaged in lively video game sessions and looked up to them for advice and guidance. His mother, Cheryl, adored Daniel, and his loss has deeply affected her and all of us.

In the wake of this heartbreaking loss, Cheryl flew to Maryland, where Daniel had been living, to bring him home. His brother Bobby also had to make the last minute and costly journey from Australia. The family has temporarily closed Cheryl's Thrifty Treasures, the family store, and as such, expenses have started to pile up. With the costs of travel, the memorial, and the impact of the store's closure, I am setting up this GoFundMe in the hope of alleviating some of this financial burden.

We know that Cheryl, who is hurting profoundly, would never ask for financial help. As such, I am reaching out on her behalf and on behalf of our entire family. We want to ensure that we can honor Daniel's memory appropriately, and support Cheryl and the family during this time of need.

I am hoping to raise as much as possible to cover the costs of last minute flights, accommodation, the memorial, as well as the loss of income from the store's closure. Any contribution, no matter how small, will be deeply appreciated. If you cannot donate at this time, please consider sharing this fundraiser with your own friends and social media networks. Every share helps. It is during times like these that the kindness of community and shared support can make a huge difference.

Please help us remember Daniel, our spirited, sweet-loving, hiking enthusiast, and devoted Marvel fan. Your kindness, in the form of thoughts, prayers, or financial support, is much appreciated.

In Loving Memory of Daniel, Our Porcupine,

Best regards, Russell Brunet