Stephanie's Story

When we lost, Stephanie, we truly lost the rock of our family. I often think about her contagious laugh and how we would all laugh with her about the silliest things. Stephanie had a gift for helping people, especially the elderly. She worked as an activity assistant in many nursing homes, painting resident's nails, getting them up and moving, leading exercises, and doing whatever she could to make them feel loved.

Christmas was Steph's favorite holiday. She loved decorating Christmas trees and made sure every branch was covered beautifully. Wrapping presents with love and using big bows became her yearly tradition. 

Being a dog mom to her American Eskimo, Paris came naturally to her.

Stephanie was a believer in Jesus and carried a quiet strength and compassion that reflected her faith. She found joy in loving others and making them feel seen.

Cannabinoid Hyperemesis Syndrome (CHS) was something I did not know existed until my sister shared it with me. Around 2018, Stephanie began experiencing symptoms of nausea, cyclical vomiting, and found only temporary relief in hot showers. She often had to leave work, as CHS symptoms would interfere with her job ability.

Years into dealing with CHS, Stephanie was also diagnosed with Long QT Syndrome, a heart rhythm condition that affects how the heart beats and can lead to dangerous arrythmias. It's possible that CHS, along with the repeated vomiting and electrolyte imbalances it caused, contributed to the development or discovery of her heart condition. Some of the medications she took to relieve her CHS symptoms, like Zofran (ondansetron) and Promethazine are known to prolong the QT interval, which added more risk. The combination of her heart condition, and the ongoing effects of CHS compromised her health in ways that weren't outwardly visible.

On May 1, 2024 Stephanie passed away from cardiac arrhythmia related to Long QT Syndrome. 

There is not a day that goes by where I don't miss her deeply or think about her. The love I have for my sister will never fade, she was not only my best friend but my inspiration. I know in my heart that Stephanie is in Heaven, at peace, and surrounded by the love of Jesus. This nonprofit is my way of carrying her light forward, raising awareness, supporting others, and honoring the life that reflected God's love through her.

Thank you for reading and holding Stephanie's memory close. Your support means everything.

                                      Alyssa XoXo