In Memory of Amber Cook: A Fund for James's Future

Team fundraiser

Paul Alexander Butler and 2 others are organizing this fundraiser.

Donation protected

On October 25th, 2024, the world suffered a tremendous loss as my partner, Amber Cook, passed away unexpectedly, leaving behind her 6-year-old son, James.

One of the brightest, most selfless and hard-working people many of us had ever met, Amber was a natural leader and a titan in the tabletop games industry. Aside from influencing the development and branding of countless games, Amber played an essential role in the expansion and rebranding of my store Games and Stuff, was instrumental in the relaunch of Free RPG Day, was a founding member of the American Tabletop Awards, and served as the fundraising co-chair for Rose Gauntlet Foundation, which works tirelessly to empower underrepresented people in gaming. A champion of misfits and underdogs, Amber made every room she was in safer for those around her, was outspoken in pursuit of justice no matter the personal cost, and was a testament to pursuing a career of passion without ego - working hard every day not only to support her son, but to make the world a bit more beautiful, and a bit more playful for everyone.

Outside of work, her enthusiasm and love of life was clear. Amber adored art, traveled frequently, and enjoyed spending time with her friends and family - especially outdoors. She was a fierce and empowering mother to James, who thankfully inherited her passions for nature and gaming. We’re raising funds to support James as he grows, hoping to offset the costs associated with his care, education, and development. Our fundraising goal was set based on estimates calculating the average costs of specialized support and resources for neurodivergent children.

All donations will go directly towards:

Educational and developmental support: Covering essential items like school supplies, assistive technologies, and specialized programming that aligns with James' learning style, along with necessary therapies that promote his growth and independence.
Medical expenses: Including annual health care, insurance, and out-of-pocket costs for any specialists essential in supporting James’ well-being.
Daily necessities: From clothing and food to opportunities for activities and hobbies, we want James to experience a full and joyful childhood, with resources that help him flourish.
Future savings and emergency funds: To ensure there are reserves for unexpected costs, future care needs, and his long-term goals in education and independence.

By contributing, you’re helping provide James with the stability, support, and opportunities he needs to grow in a way that honors Amber’s memory and love for him. Thank you for helping us care for James and build a bright, supported future in her honor. If you are unable to donate, please help us spread the word by sharing this campaign and your stories of how Amber touched your life.

This campaign is being managed by Amber's partner Paul Alexander Butler, and Amber's longtime friends Jayme Boucher and Nicole Hoye.

Paul will be managing the funds collected during this campaign, and will be working directly with Amber's immediate family to get the dollars raised into a savings account to be made available to them as the expenses for raising James arise.

Donate