Help Family Of Cranford Mother Taken By Cancer On New Year's Day

CRANFORD, NJ - The new year began with a loss for a Cranford family as Monica Carrico passed away after a long battle with cancer, leaving behind a husband and two children.

"Today, we have all gained an angel," Kate Young wrote on the GoFundMe page set up for the family. "Our beloved Monica is at peace after her long battle with cancer."

The fundraiser page, launched on Dec. 15, was started by Young and other family friends, to help pay for the growing medical bills facing Monica's husband, Nelson Eduardo Carrico.

"Monica is in the fight of her life battling cancer. Her medical bills are mounting and they need our help," Young wrote. "Cranford is an amazing community full of families who love, support and protect our own. Please consider making a donation this holiday season to ease the financial burden that this terrible disease is placing on the Carrico family."

And indeed, the community responded. The community more than doubled the initial fundraising goal of $10,000, with over $21,000 amassed in 17 days.

"Taking care of each other is one of the fundamental values we should all live by,"
Judy and Colette Baumgardner wrote on the fundraiser page.

Diana O'Grady said that Carrico was strong.

"You were always the toughest one of all of us Monica," she wrote. "Sending all my love and prayers."

In the wake of her passing, Young posted an update to supporters.

"All of the support from this incredible community of friends and family meant so much to her and the family during this difficult time," she said. "As we enter this New Year, please continue to keep the Carrico family in your thoughts and prayers."

That doesn't appear to be a big ask for the community.

"Thinking of your family," Meghan Cuthbertson wrote.

Alex Fernandes echoed those sentiments.

"We love you, and you are in our prayers, Monica," he said.

To donate visit the fundraiser page here.

(Photo courtesy of GoFundMe, a Patch promotional partner)

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