Our family has experienced an unimaginable loss when my beloved cousin, Melody, passed away at just 36 years old. She left behind her 11-year-old daughter, Tru, who is unfortunately now an orphan, as her mom was her only parent. Melody's older sister, Katie, who is already a mother of 5 children with her husband Ray, one of which is severely disabled, is desperately trying to adopt Tru to raise her with her cousins.

The adoption process is timely, confusing and most troubling, expensive. In addition to the legal fees that come along with adoption, Katie must endure the extra cost of another mouth to feed, a body to clothe and heart to keep warm and happy. If love alone could handle everything, Katie would be set but the reality is it will take tens of thousands of dollars to get Tru situated appropriately in her new home.

We are hoping to raise donations to support the adoption process and help care for Tru so she can stay with her family, who loves so her deeply. This is obviously going to be a financial burden for Katie and her family but it will be worth every penny so that the family can stay intact. We would be so grateful if you would please consider donating as every little bit helps. Just the same, sharing this fundraiser with others in your social feed is also a huge help.

Thank you so much for your care and donations. Love, Angela (Melody's cousin)

Here is a word from Katie who wrote this in loving memory of Melody:

On June 8th, 2024, our family got the devastating news that my sister, Melody, passed away at just 36 years old. Her sudden passing has left us in shock and deep sorrow. Melody was truly one of the kindest, sweetest souls, too good for this world. We miss her every single day, but we take comfort knowing her gentle spirit is now at peace, resting in the arms of our Lord.

Melody brought joy and laughter wherever she went. She cherished her family deeply, especially our gatherings, and always made the most of the time spent together. Her heart was full of love, and she was a loyal friend who was always there to lend a listening ear or offer a helping hand. Whether it was her love for Jesus, Justin Bieber, or her favorite band, For Today, Melody lived her life with passion.

One of her happiest places was out on the water, fishing in Yankton or at our family cabin in Minnesota. She had an adventurous spirit and loved going to concerts, music festivals, and road trips—always the first to say “yes” if someone needed a travel buddy.

Despite the joy she brought to our lives, Melody faced a long and difficult battle with mental illness, one that tragically took her from us far too soon. We are not sure if it was her meds or a seizure but her heart stopped beating that day. Our hearts are heavy, knowing that she won’t get to see her beautiful daughter Tru (11) grow into the incredible woman she’s becoming.

As we grieve this profound loss, we have faith that one day we’ll be reunited with her. Until then, we hold onto the love and memories she gave us.

We are reaching out to family, friends, and anyone who was touched by Melody’s life to help us honor her memory and support the costs of raising Tru and her adoption process. Any contribution, no matter how small, would mean the world to us as we navigate this heartbreaking time.

Thank you for your kindness and support. Love you forever, Melly ❤️