Last night, our family's world changed forever. Scott Coppola, beloved husband to Tara, and devoted dad to Kasey & Kyle, passed away unexpectedly while playing hockey, one of many sports he loved. Scott was the guy who lit up every room he walked into: the life of the party, equally happy cracking jokes with the adults or playing catch with the kids. He was Tara's best friend, her "ultimate errand runner, gas filler-upper, and always up for a catch, hitting, volleying, or an emergency CVS run at ungodly hours." He never missed a chance to end a family wedding with a heartfelt rendition of "American Pie." Now Tara and their two children have to face life without him, and they need our support to get through it.

This tragedy comes after years of Scott and Tara facing hardship with unwavering optimism. The family had only just started to get back on solid footing when Tara was diagnosed with breast cancer. Over the past year, she endured three surgeries, including two separate mastectomies, and time away from work to recover. Through it all, Tara remained optimistic and joyous, showing up for Scott, her kids, friends and family while fighting for her own health. Tara has spent her whole life taking care of others — plants, animals, and people alike — and now it's our turn to take care of her.

Due to the hardships they previously faced and Tara's cancer treatment, this family was already financially stretched thin — and losing Scott's income and support now puts their home and stability at serious risk. Funds raised here will go directly toward mortgage payments and outstanding debts so that Tara, Kyle, and Kasey don't have to face losing their home on top of losing Scott. It will ensure Kasey and Kyle can remain focused on their studies. Any contribution, big or small, and even just sharing this fundraiser, would mean the world to this family during the hardest chapter they've ever faced. Tara has spent her life showing up for everyone around her — please help us show up for her now.