The Zach’s Bridge Auction is NOW OPEN Help us deliver connection and compassion when it’s needed most.
Donate
Instagram Linkedin-in Facebook-f
Menu

Honoring Lainy and the Sharpe Family

Grief after the loss of a child to cancer doesn’t follow a straight path. Some days feel manageable. Others are suddenly overwhelmed by a memory, a moment, or a date that carries deep meaning. Anniversaries—especially the day a child passed—are often among the most difficult.

Today, January 31 2026, marks one year since Alaina “Lainy” Sharpe passed away. Today we pause to honor Lainy and the family who loves her.

Lainy was a bright, joyful spirit. She loved music, all the “girly” things, and spending time with her parents and two sisters. Her presence filled her family’s world, and she continues to be deeply loved and remembered.

We met Lainy’s mom, Angelica, in early 2025. She connected with her Zach’s Bridge peer mentor, Cindy—another parent who understands the unique pain of losing a child to cancer, more than 40 times, sometimes just for a quick exchange of texts and others for longer, deeper video chats or calls. In their conversations, Angelica has found space to speak openly about grief, fear, anger, love, and longing—things that are often hard to share with anyone who hasn’t lived them.

Lainy’s dad, Tony, also connected with a peer mentor. At first, he did it for Angelica. Later, he shared that he was grateful he did—that having someone who truly understood made a difference, noting “I am so happy I did this.”

Peer support for cancer parents and caregivers doesn’t just help one person. When parents feel supported, it ripples through the entire family. By walking alongside Angelica and Tony, we also help create a steadier, safer space for their two daughters as they continue to grow while carrying Lainy in their hearts.

Today we honor the Sharpe family—their courage, their love, and their perseverance through unimaginable loss. And today we remember Lainy. This day holds grief, but it also holds connection, compassion, and the reminder that no family should have to face this journey alone.

Request Support
Explore Resources
Become a Peer
Donate

Get Updates

Join Zach’s Bridge for the latest news on supporting parents and caregivers facing loss and grief from cancer, and you can help others find connection and compassion when it’s needed most.   

Related News

Zach's Bridge logo
Donate
Instagram Linkedin-in Facebook-f