Account set up for local girl's family

MOSES LAKE — A GoFundMe page has been set up to help pay funeral and other expenses for the family of a 13-year-old Moses Lake girl who died Sunday. Valerie Bashaw committed suicide; according to the GoFundMe page set up by her dance teacher.

Her mother Katie Bashaw announced the death on her Facebook page. “Fly free, Valerie Jo, my little ballerina, dance with the angels,” she wrote. The GoFundMe page can be found at www.gofundme.com/help-the-bashaw-family.

“Valerie was an amazing young lady who had a bright future,” Katie Bashaw said in a text to the Herald. “Unfortunately, she fell victim to bullying. Now instead of watching her grow and experience the beauty of life, I am wondering what we can do to save other children from experiencing depression and bullying like she did.”

More than 100 people donated to the fund within the first two hours. As of 10:45 a.m., the fund had $6,420 pledged with a goal of $15,000. At 4 p.m., the fund reached $14,435 in donations. Many of the GoFundMe contributors also left messages of condolence and support. “Valerie was a special girl,” wrote Sara Palmer. “Valerie is a beautiful princess, forever in our hearts,” wrote Karrie Pike. “Such a beautiful soul and with a big smile. We will miss you every day, Val,” wrote Kristina Rios. Strangers too left donations and messages of condolence. “I do not know you, but I live in the same area and my heart is broken for you,” wrote Nikki Barnett.