Supporting the Ravencroft Family After Tragic Loss

Hello everyone, my name is Jazzmin Whitehead, and I am organizing this fundraiser on behalf of the Ravencroft family, who tragically lost their beautiful 5-year-old daughter, Aradia, to a drowning accident on the morning of September 23rd on a lake near Portland, Oregon.

The family is new to the area: Aradia’s parents, Collin and Heather Bates (who goes by Dahlia), their two daughters, Ember (11) and Lilia (14), stepfather Christian, and grandmother Lori.

On this windy morning, I heard the sound of many sirens in the distance. When I stepped out onto our porch, I heard a desperate yell coming from right across the lake. Moments later, I saw Christian working on Aradia on the shore as paramedics arrived quickly.

Christian had jumped in to try to save her. The paramedics rushed to their backyard and worked tirelessly on Aradia for what felt like forever, but despite every effort, she could not be revived.

Aradia was a light who loved everything with her whole heart. She loved baths, bubbles, reading, coloring, playing with magnetic tiles, and blocks. Food was her love language. She loved Halloween and Tim Burton. Flowers and butterflies made her smile. Her curious heart and nature inspired us all to be present and love one another. Her family will deeply miss her radiant blue eyes and expressive face, her sweet voice and the songs she sang that filled their home.

No words can fully capture the pain this family is facing. In this time of grief, our community has a chance to help shoulder some of their burdens.

The funds raised here will go directly to Collin and Dahlia to help with funeral expenses, household needs, childcare, and any unexpected costs as they navigate life without their precious Aradia.

Even a small gift, sharing this fundraiser, or keeping this family in your thoughts and prayers can make a meaningful impact, letting them know they are not walking through this alone and that our community is standing with them during this difficult time.

With so much gratitude, on behalf of the Ravencroft family,

Jazzmin Whitehead