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Losing a family member brings hardship to families left and right. Some just go unexplained and leave plenty of questions.
On Jan. 21, 2018, Owen Paul Vincent unexpectedly passed away in his sleep at just 15 months old. It was later determined that Owen had a fatal seizure.
The experience led to the Vincent family’s discovery of the Sudden Unexplained Death in Childhood Foundation.
Maggie Beresheski, Owen’s mother, said the SUDC Foundation “immediately jumped to providing support for my family and I. They offer support groups and further testing for death cases, which remain unexplained after thorough investigation.”
Readers have the chance to help SUDC expand their services.
From 2 to 6 p.m. on Saturday, July 20, the second Smiles for Owen fundraiser will be held. All proceeds from the event will benefit the SUDC Foundation to further support their mission to promote awareness, advocate for research, and support those affected by sudden unexpected or unexplained death in childhood.
At last year’s event, Beresheski said over $3,000 was raised with the basket raffle and luncheon. Ninety-seven baskets were collected with the help of friends, family and small businesses in Western New York.
The fundraiser, at the Forestview Church of God, 1250 Saunders Settlement Road, will feature games, food, music and an array of prizes.
“We hope to make a further difference in the world by promoting awareness for Sudden Unexplained Death in Childhood. Owen touched so many in his short 15 months, and we hope to honor him in continuing to make a difference,” Beresheski said via email.
For more information on the SUDC Foundation, visit SUDC.org.
For more information on the event, visit the fundraiser’s Facebook page by searching “The 2nd Annual Smiles for Owen Fundraiser.”