Love in action by helping Ellen’s family

If you are reading this, you have probably already learned of Ellen's rather sudden passing after a quick and brutal bout with cancer. I am still processing all of it, as I'm sure many are. I've read so many of the Facebook posts about your memories of Ellen, and it is very obvious that she has had a significant impact on many people.

My name is Esther, and Ellen was my friend and neighbor. We have known each other for many years and raised our kiddos together. My husband had the privilege of doing the book cover for her book, Blaze, which she was ever so proud of.

Ellen was one of the kindest people I know, and she loved her family with everything she had. She was her children's biggest cheerleader and advocate. When she wasn't caring for her family, she poured into other kids in the Hamden public school system. She was also involved in many different areas of the community, always giving her time and energy. She will be missed by many.

It was put on my heart to approach John and Liz about doing this fundraiser for their family. With a humble spirit, they agreed that there is a time to give and a time to receive, and that this is their time to receive.

As some may know, John suffered a stroke last year and is no longer able to work. They now have mounting medical expenses, funeral costs and the loss of Ellen's income. They were also recently hit with an unexpected car issue, which required them to replace their most reliable car.

This sweet family has had a lot come at them recently, not least of which is losing their dear wife/mother/sister. Ellen loved her family dearly, and I know that if there was any way for us to honor her memory, it would be to love on her family and help them in their time of need.

If you are able, please join me in showing some extra love and support to this family and help lighten the load in this one area. I know that they will be ever so grateful.

Thank you and God bless.