Niki Wade Memorial Fund for Anya

In the early morning of Thursday, May 11, 2017, Nicole Michelle "Niki" Wade, passed away when she was struck by another vehicle, after she got out of her car, in the middle of the road, to help a wounded cat.  She died doing something that brought her heart tremendous joy and purpose, despite the many difficulties she experienced in her life.  Niki is survived by her mother, Patti Wade, and her 16 yr old daughter, Anya Keeleigh Griffin.  Patti is currently in an assisted care facility after suffering a stroke that affects the right side of her body, and her ability to speak and formulate words properly.  For the most part, Anya has been on her own for the last 5 years, basically wandering between homes where she felt she could lay her head, and also doing janitorial duties to help fund her Competitive Cheer lessons and competitions, which she dearly loves and is so good at. After receiving the news of her mother's passing, the Department of Child Safety granted Temporary Care of Anya to Michael Montanez, a Tempe High graduate and Phoenix Fire Captain. She has been friends with his daughters/my daughters, since they were in 5th grade and she has been consistently living there for the last 8 months, after receiving word her father had passed away through suicide, in Northern California.  The Phoenix Firefighters Union has graciously offered to handle all of the arrangements concerning the care and memorial of Niki, alleviating a great many 'adult' decisions that were placed on Anya during this time.  This fund has been created FOR Anya.  It is not for anything specific, other than giving her a financial security to help with anything she may feel she needs both now and in the future, such as funds for a probate attorney, fixing up and repairing Niki's car (desperately needed), meeting her needs in cheer, other school endeavors, or even taking a much needed vacation, should she feel the need.  100% of the funds go to Anya, after the percentage that GoFundMe deducts for their service.  She happens to be one of the most conservative,  responsible, frugal 16 yr olds I've ever seen.  Over the last 8 months, all of her basic living needs have been met and also will continue to be, whether with Michael, or through Casey Lynn Porter, a cheer mom whom Anya has also found care and respite.  Immediately prior to Niki's passing, she was in discussion with Casey about surrendering guardianship of Anya to her, as being what she felt was in Anya's best interest and also what Anya felt was best for herself.  As of this writing, Anya is a ward of the State of Arizona and it has yet to be determined what will be decided about where she goes and how this looks for her.  Your loving support, generous heart, and kind words mean the world to her.  We will be sure to keep everyone in the loop concerning a gathering at a later time.  Anya feels her mom would have wanted a 'Happy Party' in lieu of a memorial service.  Abundant love and gratitude to all.  The outpouring of love for Niki and concern for Anya has been so tremendous and so beautiful.  Thank you all for all of your beautiful messages.