Paying Tribute to Lauren Eley

Hi, I am Rhonda, a friend of Lauren's Mom, Amanda Eley. We have set up this fundraiser to pay tribute to Lauren Eley and to help the family during this difficult time. Lauren lost her life on Friday, 04/21/2023 at the young age of 29 years old.

Lauren was the first of many in her family. She was the first child of Amanda and Jerry. She was the first grandchild of Diane Boaz as well as Marilyn and Micheal Ratty. She was the first niece of all Amanda and Jerry’s siblings. She was diagnosed with cancer at three years old, it was a

challenging start for her and her family. Lauren went through chemotherapy, radiation, and bone marrow transplants, causing her deafness. Then at 18 years old Lauren, her father and sisters were diagnosed with a rare genetic disorder that caused all of the pain in Lauren's life.

Her life was filled with doctor offices, hospital stays, and testing. She touched so many lives from a very young age. She spent many years in the cancer ward at Children's Hospital. Eventually, she went on to the doctors at Washington University and Barnes Jewish Hospital. These medical professionals gave Lauren every additional year to her life, which she and her family will always be grateful for.

Lauren held a special place in her heart for animals. Most of the pictures you will see of Lauren there is an animal, mostly dogs. She always wanted to grow up and be a veterinarian and have tons of animals. Lauren spent hours watching Animal Planet, Jack Hannah, and the Discovery Channel as a child. Capone was her most treasured dog, the closest to a baby she could get.

Lauren also had many fond memories of being a young adult. She would go running around with friends and boyfriends. She had a great opportunity to work in a space that was understanding of her medical limitations. They loved her like their own and continued to support the family after all these years. Lauren had always wished to have children and get married

alongside her friends but never had the chance. Even though she missed out on these huge life moments she always supported the others who did no matter how much it broke her heart.

Lauren cared immensely about her family and friends. She always took time to visit, call and text everyone. She always kept in touch with the people she cared for, even when she was intubated in the hospital. No matter how she was feeling she would ask “What did you have for dinner last night?” Thankfully her life was also filled with family, friends and countless others

who cared about her as much as she cared about them. Right there to hold her hand through this tough road.