Danielle DeRosa Celebration of Life and Fundraiser

Hi Everyone,

Thank you for checking out the GoFundMe for my sister Danielle (Dani). I’m Dominique and am starting this in order to continue some of Danielle’s work, hopes, and dreams. Additionally, any funds raised will help go toward her celebration of life and events you’ll see outlined below.

Danielle fought for many years within a system that did not always serve her well. Who am I kidding? A system that barely served her at all. A system that still neglects many of us. Danielle fought to lift others up within this system - often at her own expense. She valued empowering others, had a deep sense of justice, and wanted equal and fair treatment for all. There’s no clear or easy path for folks who fight the kind of systemic challenges she was up against - especially when also facing our own mental health challenges. Danielle was largely outspoken about her challenges and would want the world to improve because of her.

On February 12, 2023, Danielle made a choice to end her life. I share this to be a voice in the world that doesn’t shame this. Danielle fought every day of her life and we must have compassion for her decision. We hoped for a different decision, but we did not fight what she did. Consider having an impulse to end your life that is as strong as having to sneeze - and yet you stop it before the “ah-choo.” Imagine the exhaustion, the strength, and the willingness to continue on with the daily slog. She deserves nothing less than respect, compassion, and understanding. Her death is one day out of a life beautifully lived and for someone deeply loved. We remember her for all the beauty she contained. There will be no tolerance for anything less.

This GoFundMe is being started in order to pay for her Celebration of Life and for the continuation of the fabulous event she started years ago: Splatter in the Park. We all knew Danielle as the incredibly thought provoking and talented author and artist she was. She started the event in the hopes of helping people silence their inner critic and find peace and self-worth through expressing themselves. I would like to continue that tradition in her honor. I would like to tentatively plan for the next Splatter in the Park, open to the public, at the 2025 Pride Celebration. It is uncertain where this will be held, but ample time will be provided for preparation. (Location likely Reno, NV or Portland, OR) Danielle was a proud member of the LGBTQ+ community and fought for equal rights. I will continue the fight and appreciate your support in keeping this event going!

Please remember that help is out there, and suicide is not the only option. If you struggle with thoughts of suicide or know someone who’s struggling, please reach out to a crisis line or check out nowmattersnow.org. You matter!

Thank you for the contribution and for helping keep Danielle’s creative, strong, compassionate, and beautiful spirit alive. ♥️❤️