On November 18th, just days after celebrating her 44th birthday, Lauren Penen was found unresponsive in her vehicle. Emergency responders rushed her to the hospital, but doctors discovered she had no brain activity. She was officially pronounced dead on November 21st. She has been on life support since that moment, and she currently remains on life support while she is being prepared for organ donation, which is expected to take place this weekend.

Lauren and her wife, Kristy, shared a life filled with love, devotion, laughter, and small everyday moments that meant everything. They were each other’s home, each other’s comfort, and each other’s constant. Now, Kristy is facing not only the unbearable pain of losing the woman she loved, but the overwhelming reality that follows such a sudden and heartbreaking tragedy.

There was no life insurance or savings to help soften the financial impact. Because Lauren has remained on life support for several days, some medical expenses may still be billed out of pocket, along with the cost of honoring her life and helping Kristy stay stable during this transition. Kristy is disabled due to a spinal injury and lives on a limited fixed income, making this loss even more difficult and frightening.

She now faces urgent and immediate needs, including:

✅ Potential out of pocket medical expenses

✅ Funeral or celebration of life arrangements

✅ Rent and housing stability

✅ Utilities, groceries, and basic living essentials

One profound source of comfort is that Lauren chose to be an organ donor. Because of her decision, multiple lives will be saved, families will be spared loss, and pieces of her spirit will continue in the world. Her generosity, empathy, and heart will live on through the lives she touches this weekend.

This fundraiser was created so Kristy does not fall into financial crisis while grieving the love of her life. One hundred percent of all donations will go directly to her to help ensure she has stability, dignity, and support during the hardest days she has ever faced.

No donation is too small, even five dollars. If you cannot donate, you can still help by sharing the campaign, offering words of comfort, or keeping Kristy and those who loved Lauren in your thoughts.

Lauren will be remembered for her warmth, humor, compassion, and the love she gave so freely. Her absence is immeasurable, but her impact will continue in the lives she saves.

Thank you for supporting Kristy during this deeply painful time. Your kindness means more than words can express.