Matt Schuler (husband of Claire Fitzpatrick)

As you may have heard, Claire Fitzpatrick suddenly lost her beloved husband Matt a few days ago. Claire is a fixture of the writing community here in Australia, fulfilling the role of Australasian Horror Writer's Association President, but she is also known for her insightful features in Aurealis Magazine, her cutting-edge short fiction, amazing editorial work in non-fiction, and her often hilarious appearances on panels and at conventions.

What you might not know is that she and Matt recently had a baby girl, and bought their own property, where they lived with Claire's older daughter, and a plethora of chooks, cats, guinea pigs, birds, and vegetable gardens. The loss of Matt, a talented creative who's contributed art to Aurealis, and a loving father, will be keenly felt.

Now is the time for us to rally around Claire and her family and support her as best we can during an immensely tragic period. We can make sure this young mother doesn't need to worry about funeral costs, mortgage repayments, school expenses, household costs, and groceries while she grieves.

A funeral will require anywhere from $5,000 to $10,000. On top of that, school fees, uniforms, text-books, groceries, public transport costs, and mortgage repayments will, at a minimum, double that figure. There is a great load on Claire's shoulders at this time, and the costs are numerous. Please help in any way you can and alleviate that burden.

Obviously, the spec-fic community is spread far and wide, and physical help is not always convenient. If you can provide anything to help with the financial strain of a time like this...particularly considering Claire is unable to drive and there is a mortgage and a baby in her life, please do so. Times are tough all-round, but anything will help with the burden of Claire's loss.