On November 6th, my best friend, Nic, was in a terrible car accident on the way home to their family.

Nic is a photographer. They specify in portraits, weddings, elopements, and engagements. This career path was recent, but what drove them to it has always been in their heart and soul. Nic is a bleeding heart. It has always been our joke. They would call me half in tears already because they'd just seen an emotional video - usually about the strength of community, or an animal in need - and needed to express their strong emotions about it out loud.

They're a Pisces, you know. It checks out.

Nic values a few key things - their husband, Mads. Community. Love. It is why they chose to document weddings. The epitome of celebration in love and soulmates. Love has brought them to tears more times than I can count. The idea of community, of people helping each other, showing up for one another, that has brought them to tears, too.

Nic is currently home in hospice, spending their remaining time surrounded by their spouse, their family, and their beloved pets. Mads has spent every waking moment since Nic's accident by their side, caring for them and advocating for what they know their wife would want in a terrible situation like this.

I am creating this GoFundMe in support of Mads and family who will be planning services and dealing with an influx of bills. My goal is to hopefully help lessen the load in a time where it is hard to even fathom thinking about money and expenses.

Mads' focus is on their wife and spending final moments with them, cherishing and loving them and caring for them as they vowed to. My focus is on community, on showing up. On rallying support for my friends in a time of need. If you can spare a couple of bucks, it would be incredibly appreciated.