Laurel Krahn lost her husband of 19+ years (Kevin G. Austin) suddenly on November 11, 2024 (he took a nap as usual, but never woke up). They relied on each other and were best friends and partners for more than 22 years. At the time of Kevin's sudden death, Laurel was still reeling from the loss of her parents (her mother in November 2021, her father in May 2023) and their two beloved cats (Isbjorn in October 2023, Ibsen in January 2024). This is A Lot. This is Too Much. It would be difficult for anyone, but Laurel has severe treatment-resistant depression which she has been struggling with for more than 35 years along with an anxiety disorder, and ADHD. Plus autism, she's recently learned. Kevin and Laurel were already struggling due to depression, these losses, unemployment, and the pandemic. Now Laurel is going to need a lot of help as she's lost the people who were her primary support.
Due to the ongoing pandemic (still unfortunately true in 2026), Laurel requests that anyone interacting with her in person wear a mask (especially while indoors, outdoors it may not be necessary). She's managed to avoid COVID so far and needs to keep it that way. Laurel can be picky about food—being newly diagnosed with ADHD and autism may explain some things—so usually gift cards are better than have people drop off food though she does appreciate offers and it is nice to get the occasional home cooked meal. (You can talk to her about this.)