Help the Miller family with the loss of their son

      Stephen Elkan Miller aka “Elkan” was not only a son, but a dear friend to many. His passing was sudden and unexpected. One can not begin to fathom the thought of burying a child; but, this is the unfortunate reality for his family. Elkan is survived by his mother Liz,  his father Stephen and sister Belle, and many cousins, aunts, uncles, and grand parents.
      Elkan was born on March 18, 2005. He had just commenced his junior year in Academy Charter High School in Hempstead. Looking forward to starting college in September 2023.  Elkan was planning on studying Finance.  One of his favorite pastimes was playing video games with his Friends. Elkan was smart, handsome, and funny. He always kept a genuine smile on his face. He was a warm and gentle spirit----a gentle giant. Although tall in stature, he had no qualms about hanging out with the younger group.  He left no one behind, and they loved having him around.  A jokester, for sure! His sense of humor was contagious, and always kept everyone around him in good spirits. The next big thing he looked forward to was a trip to Katrite indoor waterpark.
        In Spring 2021, Elkan was diagnosed with a rare form of Leukemia. At which time, he started chemotherapy and other specific treatments. Elkan and his family spent many sleepless nights in the hospital. One week admitted for treatment, next week a break, then the following week for additional outpatient treatment. This became Elkan’s life. His parents took turn spending those sleepless nights at his bedside. The toughest part was dealing with nausea after some treatments. Elkan had no appetite, and very low energy . I remember finishing up my shifts, and going up to check on him before leaving the hospital. As a Nurse, it was convenient that he was admitted to the hospital I worked. That gave me the opportunity to provide some advice to help with the eating situation. 
      On Friday September 3rd, Elkan was at the tail end of recovering from the side effects of treatment. Later that evening he complained of not breathing properly and was rushed to the hospital. There Elkan unfortunately passed away.
     As one can only imagine, Elkan’s family’s hearts are heavy, and they are weary.  I’m asking that as a community we continue to keep the Miller family in our thoughts and prayers. To give them the strength they need to get through this tragic and sudden loss. It truly takes a village, and that, we are.
       I am starting this fundraiser to assist the Miller family with any financial obligations that relates to their dear son’s funeral and memorial costs. There is no amount of money that can return things to the way it was, but at least, this can help to alleviate any burden.  Please see it in your heart to donate as little or as much as you can. Please also, share with any person that you think may be able to do the same.

“The efforts of one person cannot move mountains. It is the strength of us all working together that makes a change” -unknown