Remembering Bernadette Zielinski

Kate Hauser Smith is organizing this fundraiser on behalf of TJ Zielinski.

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Bernadette "Bernie" Zielinski passed away peacefully one day shy of her 51st birthday on January 29, 2020 from ovarian cancer. She bravely fought to live for her husband and kids right up to the very end. I am happy to say I know without a doubt that she gave her life to Christ and is in the loving arms of our Father in Heaven. Let's honor her memory on her birthday by showing our love for Todd and their sweet children Ronan and Teagan, who are only 11 and 9.

Bernadette was strong and passionate. She was a loving wife, mother, daughter, sister and friend to so many. Those that knew her would say she was a spunky Irish spitfire with the flowing red hair to match! She had a bright smile and sparkle in her eye that you could not forget. She was determined to beat cancer and took any opportunity she could to raise awareness and funds for her teal "sisters." She loved the New England Patriots; and she loved to party!!

Our hearts go out to Todd, Ronan, & Teagan as they try to pick up the pieces and live their lives without her. Todd is a Charlotte Mecklenburg Police Officer and has worked tirelessly over 20 years to protect us. Now it is our turn to step up and be his "village."

Those of you that know him, know how hard it is for Todd to ask for help, but no doubt there will be immediate extra unexpected expenses in the days and months ahead. All funds raised here will go directly to Todd to use as he sees fit to honor his wife and to assist as he begins navigating life as a single parent.

I never once heard Bernadette complain or say, "why me" during her 4 1/2 year journey. She was very private and did not like to post anything about her cancer publicly. She HATED cancer. She did, however, seek opportunities to raise awareness of this deadly disease and participated in many fundraisers to help other women fighting along with her. She was the fierce leader of the famous "Team Teal Six" that participates in the Levine Cancer Institute Stiletto Sprint event and the Teal Diva 5K in Charlotte, NC.

If you'd rather donate directly to the family, their mailing address is:

Todd Zielinski
152 Cherry Bark Dr.
Mooresville, NC 28117

Godspeed my friend! Until we see you again!