As many of you know, Shelly (my mom) has been in the hospital for the last two weeks battling both colon cancer and an aggressive small cell liver cancer. It was in my hopes that we'd be starting a fund to raise money for her continual care. Unfortunately, fate has intervened. She passed peacefully this morning with my dad at her side.

Now, however, we have to face the reality of significant medical debt from her stay at Beaumont, as well as costs to cover cremation services and a memorial service down the line.

If you knew Shelly, you understand how funny, genuine, and supportive she was. She was the kind of person who brought people together-- though, not without a sarcastic quip or slightly-too-direct observation. She didn't keep secrets. And she cared about the time spent doing almost nothing with the people who matter most.

There isn't going to be a Friday that passes where I don't think about visiting mom and Connor after work (and playing trivia games against my will for THREE HOURS). I'm incredibly grateful she got know and love my partner, Bryan, and that we got a few last days with her. I'm glad she chose one of her favorite holidays as her last day with us.

We lost a good one today.

Anything you can contribute in her memory would be greatly appreciated.

Per request, for those who want to avoid their contribution being subject to processing fees, my dad's Venmo is @Patrick-OB21

I will post updates here regarding plans for a memorial as details are settled.