Help Skyler Rebuild his Future after Tragic Loss

Hi, I am Kelly Marini, I am coordinating this Go Fund Me for Skyler. It would mean the world to me, if you could take some time to read through Skyler's story and watch his video to learn more about his heartbreaking situation and how we can all come together to help support him.

Thank-you.

GOAL OF FUNDRAISING

Money will be allocated for:

*Pay for tuition, books, fees at Trinity Western University (4 year program)

*Living Expenses while attending University full time & playing hockey

*Hockey off-season training, equipment & other sport expenses.

(Monies will be held In Trust for Skyler to pay for the above expenses.)

Dear Supporters,

During this time of immense sorrow, we come together to rally behind a young man whose world has been shattered by unimaginable tragedy. This is the story of Skyler a 21-year-old young man, whose passion for hockey has carried him through life’s challenges. The pursuit of his hockey dreams has been marred by the tragic loss of both his parents. Skyler is courageously striving to carry forward the hopes and aspirations that he and his parents held so dearly. Today, we reach out to you with a humble request to help Skyler navigate an unimaginable loss, pursue his aspirations, and alleviate the financial stress of pursuing his passion.

On May 17th of this year, Skyler and his family endured the heart-wrenching loss of his mother, Linda, after her valiant battle with cancer. The weight of grief descended upon them, leaving a void that could never be filled. Tragically, within a few weeks of losing his Mom, his Dad Darryl, suffered an unexpected cardiac event and passed away suddenly, leaving Skyler and his siblings utterly devastated. Skyler is the youngest of his siblings and the last one living in their family home. These unexpected losses have left Skyler grappling with a future without the loving guidance and support of his parents. The magnitude of this loss has turned Skyer’s life upside down, leaving him to face an uncertain future.

Skyler and his father were in the midst of making important decisions about his university offers for hockey when tragedy struck. Skyler's dreams of playing professional hockey have been a driving force for himself beginning in his early years as he first laced up his skates with Nanaimo Minor Hockey Association. Skyler developed his skills and talents in the CSSHL, playing for Shawinigan Lake and Burnaby Winter Club. He then went on to play four impactful years in the BCHL, starting with the West Kelowna Warriors. However, when his mother's cancer returned, Skyler and his family made the heartfelt decision to request a trade back to Nanaimo, allowing him to be by his parents' side in their family home. In Nanaimo, Skyler played his final two years with the Clippers, while his parents and siblings were there to support his aspirations, witnessing the depth of his dedication and talent.

Just a week before his father's passing, Skyler and Darryl made a joint decision to accept an offer to play hockey for Trinity Western University. They believed that this university, with its supportive coaching staff and encouraging environment, would be a place where Skyler could find success as he navigated the profound loss of his mother. The proximity to home offered the comfort of his family's presence throughout the upcoming year. Darryl, an ardent hockey father, held unwavering belief in Skyler's abilities and was filled with excitement at the prospect of him playing for Trinity Western in the coming season. Sadly, Skyler is now faced with this challenging transition alone.

Skyler is blessed with the emotional support of his siblings, past billet families and the hockey community, all extending their love and assistance. However, to continue pursuing his hockey dreams and his ultimate goal of playing professional hockey, Skyler requires financial support. The reality is that the sport of hockey carries a substantial financial burden, from the costs of the season itself to additional expenses such as training, equipment, and skating. Furthermore, the expenses associated with university education and living expenses for the next 3-4 years add to this financial strain. Without additional assistance, Skyler's dreams may be in jeopardy. Balancing hockey and his coursework, Skyler's schedule will leave him little time for employment, making it difficult for him to support himself during this challenging period. Previously, his father intended to fund his hockey journey each year, but Skyler now faces the daunting task of shouldering these expenses alone.

In the face of the overwhelming days that lie ahead, we appeal to your compassionate hearts to alleviate the financial burdens that weigh heavily upon Skyler's shoulders. By contributing to this GoFundMe campaign, you can help him focus on his education, hockey, and adjusting to a life without his parents while striving to make them proud. Every donation, regardless of its size, will make a profound difference in Skyler's life and help to create a brighter future where reaching his dreams is possible.

With profound gratitude, we thank you for your kindness, empathy, and unwavering support during this extremely sad time. Your contributions will not only alleviate his immediate financial worries but also provide Skyler with the strength and hope to forge ahead, and to help get him set up for success in the coming few years. Together, we can honor the memory of Skyler's parents and help him rebuild his life.

Thank you for being there for Skyler in his time of need.

We kindly ask that you share this fundraising campaign within your networks and communities, expanding the reach of our collective compassion. Your efforts in spreading the word will be invaluable in securing the support needed to enable Skyler's journey to heal and reach his goals.

With heartfelt appreciation,

Kelly Marini and Skyler's Support Team