Last night, our family experienced a loss that doesn’t feel real. My brother Jake was taken from us in a devastating car accident that claimed four young lives. A vehicle driving recklessly crossed into their path and struck the car he was in. Four out of five of those kids never made it home.

Jake was barely an adult. He was just beginning his life. He never got the chance to build a career, to fall in love, to get married, to have children, or to experience all the moments most of us take for granted. His future was stolen before it even had a chance to begin.

Jake was deeply loved. He had the kind of laugh that filled a room, a kind heart, and a generosity that showed in the way he cared about people. He meant so much to so many, and the hole he leaves behind is impossible to put into words.

My parents are living every parent’s worst nightmare. No one should ever have to bury their child, and they are trying to survive an unimaginable loss while also navigating shock, grief, and heartbreak. The last thing they should have to worry about right now is funeral expenses.

We are asking for help to ease that burden so our family can focus on grieving, honoring Jake’s life, and supporting one another through this pain. Any amount helps more than you know, whether it’s a donation or simply sharing this page.

Thank you for taking the time to read about Jake, and for helping us honor a life that was gone far too soon