Mutual Aid for Rhize's Celebration of Life
Donation protected
Hello. My name is Lis, and I am honored to be Rhize's big sister.
Rhize was a beloved sibling, child, and friend known for their boundless passion, intelligence, and determination. A gifted musician with a sharp sense of humor, a vibrant spirit, and a tender heart, they faced significant personal and systemic challenges with great courage.
At 17, Rhize’s life took a drastic turn after an accident left them with chronic pain and a dependence on opioids. This addiction, which became a lifelong battle, shaped much of their adult journey. Along the way, there were many years of sobriety and hope, but the weight of their physical and emotional pain was a constant weighing presence. Tragically, this battle with addiction ultimately took their life.
Despite adversity, Rhize’s spirit never wavered. They became a passionate advocate for those society often overlooks, from working with those seeking freedom from addiction and homelessness at The Salvation Army to volunteering as a street medic in social justice movements. Their revolutionary optimism and belief in a better world were constant.
As an entrepreneur and scientist, Rhize’s groundbreaking discovery in successfully cultivating morel mushrooms indoors was a testament to their relentless curiosity and innovative mind. As Chief Mycologist at All-In Peppers and Specialty Produce LLC, they secured NSF funding to further their research, leaving an indelible mark on the field of mycology.
Even in the face of personal battles, Rhize dedicated their life to uplifting others. Their legacy is one of resilience, compassion, and a fierce determination to make the world a better place for those who, like them, faced immense challenges.
How You Can Help
We are raising funds to honor Rhize’s life and legacy with a memorial service and celebration of life while also providing support for our family during this difficult time.
The funds raised will go towards:
- Memorial and celebration of life expenses, including renting the venue, catering, and floral arrangements for the service.
- Support for mental health care for immediate family members as we navigate the grief of losing someone so integral to our lives.
- Time off work for family members who need time to mourn, plan, and settle Rhize’s affairs.
- Legal and administrative costs associated with finalizing Rhize’s estate and handling their personal and business matters.
Any contribution, no matter the size, will make a meaningful difference in ensuring that Rhize’s life is celebrated with the love and dignity they deserve. We thank you for your support during this challenging time.
Love,
The Ermel and McCarthy Family
Organizer
Lis Ermel
Organizer
Los Angeles, CA