In loving memory of Yana Valkov

Biliana (“Yana”) Valkov was born in Russe, Bulgaria. At the young age of 20, gave birth to her daughter, Veronika, and shortly thereafter immigrated to the United States in search of a better life for her daughter. She found it and, despite the hardships that come with being a single mom, succeeded in bringing Veronika to the United States, where they began building a life together. Yana successfully raised and put her daughter through school. The pride she felt for her daughter was palpable in every conversation she had about her.

While juggling parenthood, Yana built an unparalleled career in the sales and hospitality industry, single-handedly working her way from the bottom up. She had a way with words but, more than anything, Yana had a way with people. She made enduring and genuine connections in every professional circle she had the chance to form. Anyone who had the honor of knowing Yana knew that she poured her heart and soul into everything she did and everyone she knew.

For five years, she battled her diagnosis with a radiant smile, a giddy laugh, and a faith that never wavered—all while keeping her pain and struggle to herself to not burden those around her. She was, quite simply, the strongest person any one of us have ever met. She wasn’t one in a million. She was one of a kind.

Though many of her friends, family, and colleagues have gone in different directions and are located throughout the world, they now form a village of people she’s left behind who will continue to love, cherish, and admire her, her memory, and her legacy.

Yana was happily married to Tim and surrounded by her daughter Veronika and loved ones when she passed.

Donations will be used to support Yana’s family, we’d be grateful if you could share this fundraiser with your friends, family and the countless people who were lucky enough to know Yana.