For six and half years, the world was blessed with a vibrant, sassy, beautiful little girl, Riley Reiff. Riley came into this world by storm at 28 weeks gestation. She fought hard to be here and proved how fierce she was everyday of her life. Riley was extra special from day 1, and despite having cerebral palsy and being non-verbal, she made sure the world heard her opinion on everything. She was, to put it best, spicy. She was her daddy’s girl and her mama’s world. My daughter, who also has special needs, and Riley, or “RoRo” as she called her, became immediate besties while the mamas did, too.

On September 18th, Riley’s mom- who is 28 weeks in to a high risk pregnancy- and her wonderful home health nurse went to get Riley up for school, only to find she had aspirated in her sleep and passed away. Kate and Eddie dedicated themselves to Riley, Eddie working two jobs- one being the US Navy- so that Kate could stay home with Riley. Over the summer, Riley had surgery 2 hours away and experienced some complications, at which time Eddie was without second income. As a special needs mom with a single income, I know how devastating a medical situation can be- physically, emotionally, and financially. One hospitalization can financially devastate a family for months or years to come. Now, Eddie and Kate need help. Riley deserves the best celebration of life possible, just like her life was a celebration daily. Riley was a 28 week miracle and deserves a proper sendoff!