Bizi and Gwen Surviving Loss
Donation protected
My sister Elisabeth Steeves, better known as Bizi, started planning her future with the love of her life 20 years ago. Bizi and Max recognized each other as soulmates immediately. They built a beautiful life together and 16 years ago my niece Gwendolyn became the center of their love. Tragically, Max was diagnosed with bladder cancer in July of 2020. Max was flown from his home in Kailua-Kona, Hawaii to Napa, California for a second opinion and to explore treatment options. Unfortunately upon his return to Hawaii he was mandated to quarantine at home for two weeks before he could pursue any treatment. During those two weeks Max's health rapidly declined and by the time he finished his quarantine he had become too sick to withstand any treatment. Four short months later on November 5th cancer took Max Proteau's life at the young age of 45. How does one go on when the other half of their life plan is taken away? Bizi and Gwen's financial security was entirely based on a two income household. Due to COVID as well as caring for her partner on hospice, Bizi became unemployed. While Max's health was declining the owner of the condo they rented decided to sell. The new owner bought the condo with the intent of living there and has asked that Bizi and Gwen vacate the property no later than December 24th. Bizi and Gwen's world has been turned upside down and the man who has been their greatest supporter, comforter, and provider is no longer here. Please help me to ease some of this unbearable stress and fear for Bizi and Gwen by contributing anything you can to help them create a plan for this uncertain new chapter of their lives. How your donation will be used; to assist with back due rent and utility bills, cleaners for the upcoming move, 1st month's rent and deposit once they find a new place, bereavement therapy, and hopefully something to help them have a little holiday cheer amongst the pain and loss.
Thank you to all who have taken the time to read this and who have already sent prayers, and well wishes. I will share with you a piece of advice I always try to practice, given to me by my dad. He said, "You should always give a little more than you feel comfortable giving." Love you all and thank you for supporting Bizi and Gwen during what is hopefully the darkest days of their lives.
Organizer
Raychel Bugbee
Organizer
Kailua CDP, HI