In 2015, I lost my six-year-old son Xander — an experience that forever changed my life. In the years since, I’ve learned how vital it is to have a safe place to share grief with others who truly understand. That’s why I, along with several other local bereaved parents that I have gotten to know are working to bring a local chapter of The Compassionate Friends (TCF) to our community — to ensure no bereaved parent, grandparent, or sibling has to walk this path alone.

The Compassionate Friends is a national nonprofit that provides support, understanding, and hope after the death of a child. Currently, the nearest chapters are in Parma and Port Clinton — both around 30 miles or a 45 minute drive from Vermilion. By launching a new chapter here in Vermilion, we can serve families across Erie and Lorain Counties, offering them comfort close to home.

We are raising funds to cover the startup costs of bringing this chapter to life. Your donation will help with:

Every contribution — no matter the size — helps lay the foundation for a place of compassion, connection, and healing. We have already paid enough with the loss of our children, grandchildren, or siblings and are no fees for anyone to attend, so fundraisers will be what keeps us afloat.

If you’ve experienced loss yourself, or know someone who has, you understand how much it means to find others who truly “get it.” This includes loss of life of any child from a miscarriage to post retirement age. Please consider donating or sharing this campaign to help bring The Compassionate Friends to our community.

Together, we can create a safe and understanding space for grieving families to heal and find hope again.