Support for Hannah in loving memory of her mother, Alissa

Hi everyone,

I'm raising funds for Hannah Baalbaki and her mother, Alissa Koerner-Baalbaki, who passed away on Sunday after a long and hard two year long battle with melanoma. Alissa is survived by her incredible daughter, Hannah, and her loving brother, Joshua Koerner.

If you've been so lucky to meet Hannah, you know that she is a kind, loving, generous friend to every single person she meets. Her impact on the world is in the way she treats others–with so much love and care that you feel inspired to pass it on to others yourself. Hannah's kindness shapes people and changes their day, and it's no surprise that she gets this ability to spread light from her mother.

Alissa was the brightest light in any room and always made you feel that way too. She did everything she could to make Hannah happy and was the most loving mother and best friend for her daughter. She led a clinic of social workers, dedicating her life to helping others and showing others how to do the same. Even through the most challenging times in the hospital, she showed love and care for the very people working to care for her. She became known and adored by all the doctors and nurses who got to meet her and experience her light. Alissa helped you find your light every day, but especially on the days you might not have been able to find it yourself.

The last three months have been incredibly difficult for Hannah as she helped her mom fight cancer full time in the hospital; keeping track of every single health update, advocating for her as she underwent countless tests and treatments, and providing so much comfort and care. To no one's surprise, Alissa fought as hard as she possibly could, and she and Hannah made the best team, as they always have. Hannah and Alissa are both the bravest and strongest fighters I've ever met.

We are so heartbroken to have lost such a bright light in this world, but are striving to honor her legacy by remaining strong and continuing to spread her light wherever we go. In this incredibly difficult time, we are asking for help as we try to uphold Alissa's legacy and honor her with a beautiful service and space to rest.

Any donations collected will be used to fund funeral expenses, medical bills, and support for Hannah, as she grieves the loss of her very best friend.

We would also like to extend a deep gratitude to all who have supported Hannah and Alissa throughout this long battle and in these darkest times now. Hannah and her mom are so grateful for their community, friends, coworkers, and the incredible team of care at New York Presbyterian–Weill Cornell.

Thank you for taking the time to read, donate, or share Alissa's story, and I hope you can feel Alissa's light in you today and always. ✨