The Starfish team is extremely sorrowful to send this notice to let you know that our dear sweet friend and companion, Cindy Klaja-McLaughlin, passed away on Friday, February 7th.  The shock of her passing has been extremely challenging, but most especially for her husband Patrick, who was by her side in the hospital nearly continually after she suffered a heart attack on January 29th.  We are still reeling in shock of the reality of her passing, and wish to express our heartfelt love and support to Patrick and their daughter Norma (XiXi). 

A private funeral is being planned by the family with a Celebration of Cindy's Amazing Life for later this Spring.

Patrick and Cindy were married on April 24th, 1993.  After volunteering at Starfish in Xi'an for several weeks, their hearts were poignantly touched by Amanda de Lange and the little Starfish babies. They returned in January 2009 to adopt Starfish baby Norma Xi'an, and began a new journey in their life that forever changed their hearts. Since then they have been strong friends of Amanda's and powerful advocates for Starfish.  Cindy served, together with her husband, as one of the founding members of the Board of Directors for Starfish, overseeing marketing and fundraising.  But most importantly, Cindy was the world's best wife and friend for Patrick and the world's best mom for XiXi.

In addition to her selfless service as wife and mom, and as a relentless advocate for Starfish, Cindy was owner/president of WATT AN IDEA!!!, Inc,. a strategic marketing consultancy business and Vice President of Innovation at Maddock Douglas Consultants. 

Patrick and XiXi, now age 6, express their deepest appreciation for outpouring of love and support by friends and family.  Those wishing to express their love for Cindy and Patrick are welcome to make a donation on the Starfish website in Cindy's honor. We will be providing details about the

Celebration of her Life later this Spring.

We have all been touched by Cindy's amazing capacity to love, and have been so blessed to be able to call her a dear friend.  Her sacrifice of self, love of life, and creative capacity for compassion have forever ingrained a permanent spot in our hearts.  Cindy, we love you and will forever miss you.