A grieving Braintree family say they have been overwhelmed by support from the community after the sudden loss of a “beautiful, bubbly” teenager who “lit up every room”.
The page was created by her aunt, Kathleen Parker, following Chelsea-Rose’s sudden death after a seizure triggered a cardiac arrest.
The money raised will go towards giving her a “beautiful send-off” and helping her family with day-to-day costs as they come to terms with their loss.
Chelsea-Rose, from Braintree, lived with autism and epilepsy and was described by loved ones as having the “mind of a young child”, with a love for CBeebies, In the Night Garden and LOL dolls.
Her family said her warmth and personality left a lasting impression on everyone she met.
In a heartfelt tribute, her mum, Joanna Halsey said Chelsea-Rose had been “a beautiful, bubbly, outgoing and caring person” who had shown immense strength throughout her life.
“She had a whole life ahead of her,” she said. “Chelsea had always been a fighter and had come so far in life. She was very strong.”
Earlier this year, Chelsea-Rose spent time in hospital with her family describing how she remained positive despite everything she faced.
“Chelsea always remained positive and continued to smile even in the toughest times,” her mum added.
Her death has come as a shock to those who knew her, with tributes continuing to pour in both online and within the community.
“The hardest part so far of losing Chelsea is not hearing her voice or feeling her cuddles and the way her energy filled our home,” Joanna added.
“I would like Chelsea to be remembered as the happy-go-lucky, beautiful, caring girl that she was.”
“We have had many offers of sympathy and support, including people offering to help with shopping,” Joanna said. “The kindness shown has meant so much to us.”
Kathleen Parker, who organised the fundraiser on behalf of Chelsea-Rose’s family, described her niece as “a gentle and loving girl” with a “big personality”.
“She was humorous, always had a smile on her face, and enjoyed life to the fullest,” Kathleen wrote on the page. “She loved seeing her friends and enjoyed her time at respite and school.”
Among her favourite things were Peter Rabbit, colouring, sharpening her pencils, playing on her iPad and taking her blankets everywhere she went.
“Above all, she loved her family with her whole heart,” Kathleen added. “Even at 19-years-old she had such an incredible impact on everyone she met.”
While the fundraiser continues to grow, Chelsea-Rose’s family are also facing the emotional challenge of supporting her younger sister, who will soon mark a milestone birthday.
“Within everything that has happened, we are mindful that it is our other daughter’s 16th birthday on October 26,” her mum, Joanna said. “This will be very emotional for her as it will be very close to her only sister’s funeral.
“She is in her last year of education and is struggling with grief emotions due to her own anxieties.
"We are hoping to be able to give her an appropriate birthday within everything that is happening.”
The family say they are “truly grateful” for every donation and share, with funds helping to ensure Chelsea-Rose’s funeral reflects the things she loved most.
“We cannot thank you enough,” her mum said. “Every penny will go towards giving our beautiful, special girl the send-off she deserves.”
Those wishing to donate or share their support can find the fundraiser online, via www.gofundme.com/f/in-loving-memory-of-chelsearose.
Share