In the two years since Crystal died, we have come out of the pandemic and started to heal from our losses. As we keep learning, this is a long and difficult process. Crystal’s death, for all of us who loved her, is a wound that’s just beginning to close, and the scar is one we will live with for the rest of our lives.

Unfortunately, in addition to that loss, the disrupted job market and challenge of single-parenting is taking a toll on Crystal’s family. It has been difficult for Tim to find work that allows him to keep the plates spinning of caring for the kids and all that entails – school, transportation, medical/dental appointments, groceries and cooking, and on and on. There are good work opportunities on the horizon but those won’t start until the end of the summer. Until then, the family could use some financial help to make ends meet.

Tim and the girls are finding their new normal around the giant wife-and-mom-shaped hole in their lives. Nuala, Cliona, and Keely are bright, funny, resilient young women their mom would be so proud of. They are doing well in school and have strong connections with friends and their community of aunties who loved their mom and adore them. If you’re able, please join me in supporting Crystal’s beautiful family in honor of her memory and to maintain a strong foundation on which the girls can build their futures.