Kirsten is the kind of person who shows up.

She spent her career as a social worker and therapist supporting children and families—especially neurodiverse kids—helping them feel seen, understood, and safe. She built a mental health practice rooted in compassion and advocacy, and she made a lasting impact on so many people in our community.

Now it’s our turn to continue showing up for the people Kirsten loved most.

When we first created this fundraiser, Kirsten had just been diagnosed with stage four metastatic cancer. The cancer had spread to her brain, causing lesions that dramatically affected her vision, balance, ability to walk, and independence.

Everything happened unbelievably fast.

In just a matter of weeks, Kirsten went from living her normal life as a wife, mom, therapist, friend, and business owner to hospital stays, radiation, coming home with significant physical limitations, and beginning chemotherapy for metastatic breast cancer.

Through all of it, there was so much hope. Hope that radiation would restore some of what the brain lesions had taken from her. Hope that treatment would work. Hope for more time.

On Friday night (9/25) Kirsten passed away.

We are devastated.

Kirsten leaves behind her husband, Derek, and their two young children, along with family, friends, colleagues, clients, and an entire community of people whose lives are different because she was part of them.

The support that surrounded Kirsten and her family from the moment of her diagnosis was extraordinary. People donated, brought meals, helped with childcare, shared this fundraiser, prayed, sent messages, and stepped in wherever they could. Every bit of that support mattered.

And while Kirsten’s fight with cancer has ended, our opportunity to care for her family has not.

This fundraiser will now continue in support of Derek and their children as they begin navigating a life they never expected to face without Kirsten. Funds will help provide some financial breathing room as Derek grieves the loss of his wife, cares for their children, takes time away from work when needed, manages household and childcare expenses, and faces the many immediate and long-term costs and transitions that come with losing a spouse and mother.

There is no amount of money that can make this okay. But there are practical burdens we can help carry so this family has one less thing to worry about while they grieve.

If you have already donated, brought a meal, prayed, shared Kirsten’s story, or supported their family in any way: thank you. The love surrounding them has been incredible.

If you are able, please consider donating or sharing this fundraiser again.

Kirsten spent so much of her life showing up for other people.

Let’s keep showing up for her by surrounding Derek and their children with that same love and care in the days, months, and years ahead.

We love you, Kirsten. We wish more than anything that we had more time. ❤️