No one ever expects to have to bury their child. Its an unimaginable phone call, a heartbreaking loss.  My dear friend, Simone Fitzgerald, got just such a call early Sunday morning.

Simone's son, Tyler Webster, was killed in an motorcycle accident last night in Perth, Australia.  Tyler had just made the brave move to Perth 30 days ago.  He wanted to be with his two eldest brothers, Dylan and Brandon, who were also living and working there.  It was a wonderful fresh start for Tyler.  He was so excited to get a do-over, and be close to his family there.  For the first time in a long time, he was filled with happiness in his life.

There are so many in our Eldridge community that know and love this family.  Tyler's Dad, Scott Webster, is from Long Grove, IA, and his Mum, Simone, is from Perth, Australia.   Simone's kids [Dylan, Brandon, Tyler, Cayle, Ashlee, Riley and Madison] have gone to North Scott schools, and played North Scott sports.  The entire family and their friends are reeling from this sad news.

Any of us that have had to book last minute airline flights know how incredibly expensive they can be.  Now imagine that for an international flight.  The expenses involved with trying to get his parents and siblings over there to say goodbye, and to make funeral arrangments, are mounting.  The last thing a family needs to worry about when they are trying to cope with death is how will they recover from the expenses.

Many of Simone's friends and family have reached out with their condolences already.  Most have asked if there is anything they can do to help.  The love is felt and she is so grateful. 

I'm asking if we, as her friends and neighbors, can donate to help her family during this extremely difficult time.  All funds raised will be used for the airline flights to/from Australia, and covering funeral related expenses.   Tyler had not yet obtained life insurance for himself.

I thank you for taking time to read this, and for any support you can give.