On Monday, June 30th, I lost the loves of my life. My fiancé, Oscar James Bishop III, was killed in a horrific car accident that also claimed the life of our sweet 8-year-old terrier, Zelda. By some miracle, and a few angels, our two Gordon Setters survived the crash physically unharmed.

Oscar and I spent the last ten years building a life full of laughter, love, hard work, and lots of animals. We were only weeks away from closing on our very first home, a place we dreamed of transforming into our homestead with terraced gardens, diverse fruit trees and plants, and a safe haven for the animals we care for. Now, I’m left to face an unimaginable future without him.

Oscar was more than a partner; he was a magical being, full of wisdom, curiosity, and a deep understanding of the natural world. He was a 6th-grade teacher, a gifted rock climber, hunter, snowboarder, chemist, artist, dog trainer, and musician. He was magnetic—charming, witty, gorgeous, and unforgettable. He made friends everywhere he went and touched the lives of so many, especially the students he guided with kindness and curiosity.

Now I’m navigating life alone with a small menagerie of animals to care for: three dogs, two cats, two goats, and a lively flock of chickens, ducks, and pigeons. We had no children, but these creatures are our family.

Oscar did not have life insurance, and without his income and support, I’m no longer able to afford the home we chose together and were days from closing on. I can also no longer afford or live in the house we shared in Glendale—it’s too painful and far away from my job and support system. But with your help, I may still be able to fulfill our shared vision. I dream of creating a space where I can continue caring for our animals and bring my aging father up from Los Angeles—a chapter Oscar was excited to write with me. It's the only future that makes sense to me now.

This fund will help:

Increase the down payment so I can qualify alone

Feed and care for our animals

Pay for temporary help with farm and father's care when I need to travel for work

Cover grief counseling

Support me as I navigate a future I never imagined

It’s hard to ask for help. But I know I can’t do this alone. If you’re able to give—no amount is too small— or simply share, I’ll be forever grateful and I know Oscar would be also. Thank you for helping me honor his and Zelda’s memory and keep our dream alive.

With love and hope for the future,

Audrey Stange