Paying Tribute to Drew

On March 12th, 2024 my sister Tassia lost her partner of 21 years very suddenly.

Drew lived with severe, drug-resistant epilepsy for the better part of two decades. Tragically, right before he was to have the groundbreaking surgery which would give him a chance at the life he'd always dreamed of, he passed away in his sleep due to complications with epilepsy, known as Sudden Unexpected Death in Epilepsy (SUDEP). He was only 37.

Drew was gentle and kind. He had a wicked sense of humor and loved all animals. He caught spiders in a cup and took them outside. He loved cars, even though he wasn't able to drive them due to his condition. He was incredibly intelligent and fiercely loyal to the people he loved. He loved his family so much. He loved my sister with a sincerity I've never witnessed before. His love was unconditional. He would be devastated that Tassia's future is so uncertain right now.

Unfortunately Drew didn't leave a will, so the house he owned with Tassia will be held up in probate for some time. Tassia and Drew lived on monthly disability which they filed for as a disabled couple. This is now up in the air since the government has to close the case because of his passing. Their mortgage increases when their property taxes shot up last year, a product of the horrific Canadian housing market. Most of Tassia and Drew's finances are now tied up in a bunch of legal red tape, which has left my sister in a very precarious situation with a $2200/month mortgage she can't afford.

Tassia is no stranger to tragedy. She was hit by a car in middle school. It took years, multiple surgeries, and rehabilitation to regain her mobility, but she was left with permanent mobility issues which have made living in our capitalist society incredibly difficult for her. She works a part-time job, and is unable to work full time due to her disability.

Tassia has also been taking care of me for the last six months while I recovered after I suffered a violent attack. She is the kind of person who would do absolutely anything for the people she loves and if I were in the financial position to take care of her in the same way she and Drew have been taking care of me, I would in a heartbeat.

I'm asking for help because Tassia is the best person I know. She is selfless and compassionate. She always puts others before herself. She is a caretaker and a big sister to all, even her own big sister. She is the absolute best and she needs help, and this is the only way I know how to help her right now.

This money will keep her afloat for a few months while she sorts through the hardest moment of her life. Her plan is to sell the house, but she can't until the probate stuff is sorted, so she just needs some time and some help. Any little bit truly helps. If you aren't able to help monetarily, please consider sharing this on your socials for visibility.

Thank you so much for taking the time to read this.