On Saturday, July 5, 2025, Raymond Iraci passed away, forever changing the lives of his three daughters, Lauren, Michele, and Avery.

Lauren and Michele have always been steadfast supports for their younger sister, Avery. When their father’s health began to decline, Lauren made frequent trips from Vermont to New Jersey to help out and spend time with her family. The sudden diagnosis of stage four cancer changed everything, and in just a few weeks, Lauren became Avery’s legal guardian. Their father’s passing has left Lauren, Michele, and Avery devastated and heartbroken, facing a future that feels uncertain and overwhelming.

In the midst of this loss, Lauren had to move Avery and their father out of their New Jersey apartment and bring them to her home in Vermont. Lauren, Michele, and Avery had been staying by their father's side at the hospital leading up to his passing, which has meant extra costs. Lauren is now the sole caregiver for her 12-year-old sister and has had to take unpaid leave from work. The family is struggling to cover bills, daily living expenses, therapy supports, and end-of-life services for their father. Every day is a challenge as they try to adjust to their new reality and find a way forward together.

Lauren is years beyond her age—hardworking, compassionate, and dedicated to helping others and doing the right thing. She is pursuing her master’s in social work, provides therapy to children and families, and works as a crisis clinician. No challenge has ever stopped her, and she is determined to do whatever it takes to care for Avery. Avery is smart, funny, and creative and she needs all the support she can get as she navigates this difficult and unprecedented time in her life. Any help from the community will make a real difference for these sisters as they rebuild their lives.