A fundraiser has been set up for the mother who lost her eight-year-old son in Cambridge on Saturday.
One of the mother’s friends, Karen Hyckenberg, has created a Gofundme page in hopes of supporting the mother in this difficult time.
“He was her joy, and she gave everything she could to him,” said Hyckenberg on her Gofundme page.
Kate Hesselink tragically lost her son Charlie last weekend, and the police are still investigating the cause of death.
According to Hyckenberg, at the beginning of the pandemic, Hesselink’s health began to deteriorate and she developed multiple chronic illnesses.
“Due to dietary restrictions and her precarious health concerns, donating funds is the safest and most effective method of support at this time,” Hyckenberg said in her appeal.
In just one day, the campaign has raised $4,000 of its $10,000 goal with nearly 40 donations.
More information can be found at their Gofundme page here.
Police have been unable to locate Curtis Hesselink, who they believe has information about the boy's death. Police have yet to describe what the man and boy's relationship was.
They are asking anyone with information to contact the Waterloo Regional Police Service at 519-570-9777 or Crime Stoppers at 1-800-222-8477.
Anonymous tips can also be submitted at www.waterloocrimestoppers.com.
Community support is available through Victim Services of Waterloo Region by visiting www.vswr.ca or by calling 519-585-2363 or 519-570-5143. Support is also available through Here 24/7 by visiting www.here247.ca or by calling 1-844-437-3247.