Fundraiser Started After Death Of 'Vibrant' Norton Mother Of 3

NORTON, MA — Loved ones have started a GoFundMe to support the family of Ariana Sutton, a Norton mother who died by suicide days after delivering newborn twins in May, according to the fundraiser's organizers.

Sutton, 36, was born in Stoughton and raised in Easton, according to her obituary. She graduated from Oliver Ames High School in 2005 before attending the University of the Arts in Philadelphia.

Sutton co-owned Starline Academy for the Performing Arts in Stoughton with her sister, according to her obituary. She was also a member of the Greater Brockton Dance Teacher’s Association and a former member of the Impact Dance Company in Boston.

"Ariana thrived at inspiring children with the joys of dance and was an avid animal lover," according to her obituary.

Sutton is survived by her husband Stephen "Tyler" Sutton—an Easton police officer— a 4-year-old daughter named Melody Ki, and twins Irene and Stephen.

"Ariana, a vibrant and devoted mother, was eagerly awaiting the arrival of her twins, Everly Irene Sutton and Rowan Stephen Sutton," the two organizers wrote in the description of the campaign, which went live Friday. "Unfortunately, their early arrival brought unforeseen challenges, placing an immense strain on Ariana's mental health. Despite her relentless efforts to seek help, the burden of postpartum depression became too much to bear. Our hearts break for Ariana, her babies, and the Sutton family, as they now face the unimaginable task of moving forward without her."

The campaign's organizers explained that the fundraiser aims to ease the Sutton family's financial burdens, including child care support, which will allow Tyler Sutton time "to focus on his children's well-being during this difficult time."

The campaign also asks for continued prayers, love, and support for the Sutton family, with the organizers adding that they hope Ariana Sutton's story brings awareness about postpartum depression.

"By fostering a supportive community, we can strive to prevent other families from experiencing similar tragedies," the campaign continues. "We extend our deepest gratitude for your compassion, love, and support during this heart-wrenching time. Let us show the Sutton family that they are not alone, and that their story has touched countless hearts."

As of early Tuesday afternoon, the GoFundMe has raised more than $263,000 of its $300,000 goal.

If you are having suicidal thoughts, dial 988 for the National Suicide and Crisis Lifeline.