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Friends and family are rallying to support the two children of an East Patchogue mother and community volunteer following her unexpected death.
Donations continue to pour in for the children of Cheri Graf, four weeks after her sudden passing, after reportedly having surgery. The Brentwood High School graduate was known for her volunteerism and generosity, often helping out at local events and supporting various community initiatives.
A GoFundMe page, created by Christine Panganiban and Brian Walter, aims to help with day-to-day needs, a celebration of her life and longer-term support for Graf’s young adult children. It has raised nearly $13,000 through 200 donations.
‘Heart of the family’
“Cheri was the heart of her family and the biggest source of love and support for her two children, Madison and Matthew,” reads the GoFundMe page established days after Graf’s July 15 death. “Let’s surround Madison and Matthew with love.”
In a heartfelt Facebook post, Graf’s daughter Madison Saolenko thanked friends and community members for their support, and fondly remembered her mother.
“My mom was and is and always will be an amazing woman,” she wrote. “It’s amazing how many amazing memories and ways she has touched so many people.
‘So much suppoprt’
“This is the hardest thing I have ever gone through and knowing I have so much support is helping a lot,” she added.
In another touching online tribute, Matthew Sabolenko referred to his mom as an “angel” and called her the “most selfless, inspiring, hardworking women I ever met.”
“I am so proud of you and all you have accomplished, from building a house all on your own, to raising 2 kids through college and helping us get to where we are today. I love you to the moon and back mommy,” he added in the Facebook post.
‘The best mom’
In another Facebook post, he said, “I didn’t just have a mom. I had the best mom.”
Top photos: Inset of Cheri Graf and her daughter Madison Sabolenko (GoFundMe) and Cheri Graf (Facebook).
