GIVING TUESDAY: Community support for dad and newborn son whose mom died in childbirth

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The Tuesday after Black Friday is traditionally its flip side … Giving Tuesday. We publish giving opportunities almost every day, and your inbox is likely brimming with requests today. We have a few to share, starting with this one sent to us by a friend of the family. Less than two weeks ago, 34-year-old Darby Bukowski died in childbirth. Her son Wyatt survived and is with his dad Jackson. Friends and family are crowdfunding not only for current expenses but to provide for Wyatt’s future. Friend Karla, in sharing this link about Darby, told us, “She was so excited to become a mother, and I was so looking forward to her experiencing the wonderful support and community she would have found among the families and neighbors who make this area so special. Darby was a true joy to be around. She made everyone feel welcome and seen, and she had a natural gift for putting people at ease. Her bright, beautiful smile was contagious.” Karla tells us that Darby’s due date had been November 19, and she died as Wyatt was born November 22, so he was born full-term.

Peter S. December 2, 2025 (1:24 pm)

Stating the obvious: How unbelievably heartbreaking. Especially during the holidays. It’s easy to forget these tragedies still occur despite all our advancements in medical technology. Sincere condolences to all their family and friends.

Christopher B. December 2, 2025 (1:38 pm)

Sadly, when it comes to our “advancements in medical technology”, for health issues affecting women, research and funding is woefully behind where it needs to be. The US continues to have the highest rate of maternal deaths of any high-income nation. And the statistics are most dire for Black Americans.
Denise Bukowski December 2, 2025 (7:12 pm)

Thank you for your comments.

Wsresident December 2, 2025 (1:45 pm)

How heartbreaking. Donated and shared.

Denise Bukowski December 2, 2025 (7:09 pm)

Thank you from Darby’s mom, Denise. We are devastated, but have a part of Darby left behind.

Neighbor December 2, 2025 (7:31 pm)

I was moved to donate too, a small sum but a message of caring. I am so very sorry for your loss.

ACG December 2, 2025 (7:53 pm)

My deepest condolences to all of Darby family. This is so heartbreaking.

Lauren December 2, 2025 (9:13 pm)

Oh. I am so, so sorry.

Neighbor December 3, 2025 (8:53 am)

We are heartbroken for Jackson, Wyatt, and the family. Keeping you all in our thoughts and wishing you lots of strength during this extremely difficult time.

Seaview neighbor December 3, 2025 (11:51 am)

I’m so sorry to hear this devastating news. I’m thinking about your family.

Ron Thompson December 3, 2025 (4:48 pm)

I’m so sorry for for the loss , I’m grieving also for my neighbor that was like a mom to me. I can’t imagine this , it’s why everyday we should always be kind to one another. You never know what someone is going through.

Tiffany December 3, 2025 (11:39 pm)

Thank you for sharing – I met Darby at the West Seattle Art Walk and after that, we shared walks, coffees and dinners together all in WS. Grateful to this beautiful community for creating space for us to meet. I will forever be grateful that I got to be her friend ❤️.  

Lifelong WS Resident December 4, 2025 (3:10 pm)

As a husband and father, this was always my biggest fear entering the next chapter in life. A mother gave the ultimate sacrifice so that she could bring a beautiful baby into this world. What should be a moment of celebration is now a moment of mourning. My thoughts and prayers are with Jackson, Wyatt and all of the loved ones that are impacted by this tremendous loss.