When someone you love dies suddenly, life does not just change for one person. The loss moves through families, friendships, workplaces and communities. It leaves people trying to understand how someone so loved can be gone, and how to carry that grief forward.
For Albonie, that loss came in November 2022, when her late husband, Ian, passed away suddenly.
The impact of that loss was felt across their whānau, friends and everyone who knew him. In the years since, Albonie has looked for ways to honour Ian’s life in a way that feels meaningful, bringing people together through a sport he loved while giving back to causes that matter.
The first year, funds were raised for the charity in Ireland that helped cover the cost of returning Ian home. Last year, Albonie supported I Am Hope, and this year she is once again choosing to stand behind youth mental health.
So far, she has raised an incredible $9,250.
That generosity will help more young people connect with mental health professionals when they need support, especially during the moments that can feel darkest.
For young people, early support can make all the difference. Being able to speak to someone, feel heard and know they are not alone can be life-changing.
By honouring Ian in this way, Albonie and her community are helping create that opportunity for others.
Albonie, thank you for your heart.
Thank you for choosing to honour Ian by helping young people access support.
Thank you to everyone who has donated and got behind this fundraiser.
And thank you for reminding us that even through loss, people can come together to create hope.
