Support Amanda and Her Children Through Tragedy

On Friday, November 8th, we received the heartbreaking news that our sister Amanda’s husband, James Macdonald, lost his life while hiking on Mt. Hood in Oregon. As Amanda is now a single mother of four, help us alleviate her burden as she faces a new reality.

The loss of James is incomprehensible. He was a dedicated father, husband, and physician. In Amanda’s words, James was “unfailingly loyal, thoughtful, and a true family man.” James and Amanda celebrated their ninth wedding anniversary three weeks ago. Together, they had four children, Gabriel (6), Lucas (4), and twins William and Elizabeth (1). James was known for taking his two older boys on adventures, a knack for making anyone laugh, and his love of nature. As an exceptional student, he graduated second in his class in medical school and was in his final years of a radiology residency at Oregon Health and Science University (OHSU). Together, he and Amanda sacrificed much throughout his medical schooling and residency and were excited to begin the next chapter of life.

We are overcome with sorrow. On Wednesday November 7th, James set out for a hike on Mt. Hood, as was his favorite pastime on his days off. Though a highly experienced hiker, he became lost. When he didn’t return home to Amanda that evening, Search and Rescue (SAR) was dispatched to find him. SAR searched tirelessly for two days, but did not find him in time. Unprepared for overnight conditions, James died from exposure while trying to descend the mountain and make it home to his family.

We are all devastated by the loss of James, but none more than Amanda and her family. With four young children to raise, including one-year-old twins, Amanda needs our help. All funds donated will go directly to Amanda to help cover her and her children’s expenses, including future educational needs. Any donation, of any amount, will never be forgotten and will make a tangible impact, both emotionally and practically.

We love you all,

Amanda’s siblings,

Ben, Hannah, & Rocky