I’m writing on behalf of Tess’ Mother Gina. Today would have been Tess’ 34th birthday - a day that holds many dear and special memories for her family and friends and one that now marks the bittersweet memory of her tragic and untimely death on February 17th, 2022. It’s important for us as a community to keep the spirit of Tess alive by honouring her life and acknowledging the day she was born into this world. While many knew of her challenges with mental health, so many more didn’t know of the light that she radiated, the wicked sense of humour she shared with her loved ones, and the incredible efforts she made to heal and move beyond her struggles. Grief comes with hard truths and painful memories, and as a community supporting her family through this unbelievably difficult time, we must also sit with the reality of our collective responsibility to Tess, and examine how we care for those most vulnerable to the chaos of living in this world. Regardless of your relationship with Tess and her family, we ask you to take a moment today to light a candle, sing a song, and take a moment to honour and celebrate a beautiful life taken too soon.

with gratitude from Gina and Dakota