Karen Aviles Memorial Support

As colleagues of Sam Lass, we were devastated to learn of the news of the passing of his fiance and partner of 10 years at 34 years old. She was taken far too soon by sepsis that had resulted from an illness that developed progressively while they were on vacation sadly. They were at Disneyland with their close friends and their children that Sam had paid for for Karen's birthday at the end of October into early November. She did not even get to enjoy the full vacation and what was supposed to be a fun week for Sam with Karen had turned into his worst nightmare in a matter of a week. Even worse yet, this continued when Sam returned to the news that Karen had received an offer letter from her dream job out in Napa, CA...one that she will never get to enjoy directly and sadly. Seeing Sam heartbroken and knowing that this gentleman wears his heart on his sleeve, we have surrounded ourselves around him as friends and colleagues to help continue to lift him up.

We decided as a team to start a GoFundMe for Sam as well. The funds will be used to help Sam cover the costs of spreading Karen's ashes in Yosemite, Monterey, and to also help cover the rest of the Disneyland trip that was more than devastating for the children of Sam and Karen's friends. Whatever additional funds that come will be used to help Sam cover personal expenses and support Sam and Karen's family with other costs. Sam would greatly appreciate messages too if you are willing to leave them in the comments for him.

Karen's kindness and hospitality will be forever missed. You can see the original story posted by Sam on Reddit: https://www.reddit.com/r/offmychest/comments/ywq2ws/my_fianc%C3%A9_died_last_week_during_what_should_have/