Dear Friends and Family, As many of you know, Christine’s world changed forever this past holiday season. On Christmas Eve, her beloved husband, Dean, set out for what was supposed to be a peaceful hike with his good friend — but they were not able to return home. Our hearts are shattered for Christine, Luke & Noah as they try to process this unimaginable loss. If you were lucky enough to know Dean, you know he was one of the kindest, most loving people you could ever meet. He was Christine’s rock—the steady, unwavering presence that held their family together. He adored Luke & Noah, and there was nothing he wouldn’t do for them. Dean didn’t just love his family—he lived for them. His kindness, warmth, and generosity extended beyond his home to his friends and community, and his absence leaves a void that can never be filled. And then there’s Christine—our dear cousin, friend, and one of the most selfless people we know. She has spent her entire life giving to others, whether through her years of work as a Multnomah County social worker or simply in the way she has always put everyone else ahead of herself. She has touched many and has shown up for so many people in their hardest moments—now, it’s time for us to show up for her. Christine has already endured so much. Many of you know she took a primary role in caring for her Mom for many years. Last year, she also suffered from a stroke and she’s been working hard to regain her strength. And now, with Dean gone—their family’s primary provider—she is facing not just the emotional devastation of losing him, but also the heavy weight of financial uncertainty. More than anything, we want her to focus on healing—physically, emotionally, and for the sake of Noah and Luke—without the added stress of wondering how she will manage everything alone. How We Can Help So many of you have asked how you can support Christine and the boys during this heartbreaking time. Here are a few ways to show your love: 💙 Financial Support – With Dean gone, Christine is navigating an entirely new reality, and financial help is one of the biggest ways we can ease her burden. Any contributions will go toward everyday expenses, medical care, and ensuring stability for Noah and Luke. 🍽️ Meal Support – We all know how overwhelming grief can be, and even small tasks like cooking can feel impossible some days. If you’d like to drop off a meal, send a restaurant gift card, or help with groceries, it would mean so much. 🔨 Household & Handyman Help – With Dean gone, there will be home maintenance tasks that Christine could use extra support with—things like fixing small repairs, yard work, or even just moving heavy items. If you’re handy or willing to lend a hand, this would be a meaningful way to help. 🎁 Other Acts of Kindness – If you’d rather send a gift, a card, or just a thoughtful message, those small gestures can be a huge source of comfort in the coming months. Let’s Lift Christine Up Christine has spent her entire life taking care of others. Now, it’s time for us to take care of her. We can never replace the loss of Dean, but we can make sure she doesn’t have to walk this road alone. Thank you for being part of her circle of love. Your kindness, generosity, and prayers mean more than words can say. With love, Jane & Caroline