I have created this gofundme because Elyse has always been that friend who shows up - goes the extra mile, and is willing to share her finances. She would never ask for this sort of help unless she seriously needed it, and after floating the idea to her, she let me know she was thinking of asking for me to do this!

That said, Elyse is easily the most compassionate and supportive person I know, and it breaks our hearts to see what her and matt have been through. Elyse has not wavered being by his side since his diagnosis in 2021, hundreds of appointments, countless unexpected hospital visits, all of which he navigated with remarkable spirit.

Elyse has paused her own life and career to give everything she has to care for Matt, and in the process, she’s had to watch the man she fell in love with slowly slip away.

Healing after the loss of a partner is never linear. Lets show Elyse support by ensuring she has the stability to move through this process at her own pace. Be it returning to work in her own time or moving into her own space for a fresh start.

Ideally, we can give Elyse the support and dignity required to begin rebuilding her life. A different living space will be critical in helping her step into this next chapter with agency and empowerment.

Elyse is fortunate to have the love and support of her family, and community support only makes us stronger. This fundraiser is a way for friends, loved ones, and the wider community to come together to provide stability during a time when everything else feels uncertain.

As she faces the transition many of us wish we never have to make, the reality is that starting her next chapter will come with significant costs — even for someone as capable and independent as Elyse.

Some approximate costs for perspective:

1) Rent and utilities for a modest one-bedroom apartment average $2,150/month.

2) Basic furnishings and household essentials, including replacement of items damaged during caregiving, can cost $4,000–$6,000.

3) Groceries and transportation average $200–$250/week

4) while occasional medical costs and supplies can add another $100–$200/month.

5) Weekly therapy sessions, essential for processing grief, can total around $6,500/year.

6) Having a small cushion for unexpected expenses, like urgent repairs or additional household needs, is critical — around $2,000–$3,000.

7) Altogether, these basic necessities easily add up to over $40,000 for one year!!

I recognize this is a big number, but lets remember this is a big life transition (and one we wouldnt wish on anyone!)

Any contribution, no matter the amount, will directly help Elyse cover these essential needs and remind her that she is surrounded by care and compassion.