Help the family of the late Chris Burdick

Hi, my name is Katy and I am fundraising on the behalf of the family of the late Chris Burdick.

Chris recently passed away suddenly on Monday, June 19, 2023.

Chris was a beloved son, brother, father, partner, and friend. He was an avid fan of the New England Patriots and the Boston Celtics. He loved hip hop and rap music. He had a knack for drawing and keeping his shoes the cleanest at all times. His laugh was infectious in the best ways. His hugs felt like home. He loved intensely and would give anything he could to help someone he loved who was in need.

Below is a beautifully written tribute to Chris written by his sister Jillian:

“This is my brother, Chris. He took his life yesterday. If you know me, you probably know that Chris was so much more than my big brother. He was vital. He was my person. He was so much more than the desperation and hopelessness of his last moments.

Chris saved me so many times. We saved each other. He saved me from nightmares as a child by letting me go to sleep on bad nights holding his hand. He was my safe place in a world that didn't feel safe. In a world where monsters were real, he'd chase away the real and imaginary. I saved him from ugly situations that don't belong here.

I couldn't save him from the wrong people he gave so much of himself to, that took the best of him and left him with nothing. I couldn't save him from the ugliness in the world, and I couldn't save him from himself. I cannot tell you how hard we tried. Chris was beautiful and he deserved so much more than this.

I'm telling you as candidly and honestly as I can, because nothing has ever felt like this.

Nothing has ever felt so ugly or powerless. There is a clawing desperation in my chest for breath to fill his lungs.

If you are feeling what he felt, I and everyone you love need you to understand this: You are vital. You've saved someone. Suicide does not end your pain. It distributes it among the people you love the most. Those people love you. Every ugly, broken, beautiful part of you. You deserve every sunrise and sunset that God has given you. You are so worthy. Chris was so worthy.

Please, please pray for our family. We don't know how to do this. No one should ever have to know how to do this.”

Even if he felt otherwise, Chris was infinitely and unconditionally love. He mattered; his life mattered.

If you are feeling low, like life is too much, please talk to someone. You may be surprised to find out how your loved ones face some of the same struggles and how willing they are to help you keep going.

The Suicide & Crisis Lifeline is available 24 hours a day 7 days a week. You can reach it by dialing 988 on your phone.

You are valid. You are loved. You are worthy. Please stay a while.

We are all devastated by Chris’ loss and were not prepared for the costs of services. We want to give Chris the memorial he deserves, to honor his memory, wishes, and give Chris’ family the opportunity to grieve in peace without having to worry about costs.

I am currently asking for donations to help cover the cost of Chris’ memorial services. We need to raise $5,000 by 6/27/2023 in order to be able to afford the memorial services.

Please consider donating, as any amount will truly help our family during this difficult time.

Thank you so much and have a wonderful day.

Katy Quirk