I’m writing this with a heavy heart on behalf of my dear friend, Sonia Skinner, who has just lost her brother, Ian Skinner, far too soon to cancer. His passing was quick and unexpected.

They weren’t just siblings — they were best friends. They lived together and leaned on each other every single day. His loss is sudden, devastating, and impossible to put into words.

In the midst of profound grief, my friend is now facing overwhelming financial stress. She has taken unpaid time away from work and is processing this loss and handling arrangements. Ian also paid for half of their shared mortgage and household bills, leaving her with immediate and unexpected expenses. In addition, she is now responsible for hospital bills and burial costs, which are estimated to range from $10,000 to $15,000.

This is not something anyone should have to carry alone — especially while grieving someone so deeply loved.

We are hoping to raise funds to help cover burial expenses, as well as ease the financial burden of the unexpected bills. Every donation, no matter the size, will go directly toward helping her stay afloat during one of the hardest moments of her life.

If you’re able to give, thank you. If you’re not, sharing this fundraiser means just as much. Most of all, thank you for showing up with compassion and support during a time when it’s needed more than ever.