Thank you, Marelinfrom all your Madeira Friends

For six years she took care of all of us. Now it's our turn to take care of her.

Secure donation via Stripe (any amount helps)

A heart bigger than the island

Since the very first day of Madeira Friends, Marelin has given everything. Those who know her know exactly who she is: endlessly empathetic, always putting others before herself, and available almost around the clock. Her phone never stopped, and neither did she.

So much of what this community is today exists because of her care, her energy and her heart. She welcomed newcomers, solved problems no one else could, and made so many people feel at home in Madeira.

That kind of giving comes at a cost. Marelin is now stepping away to rest and recover for as long as she needs, and we want her to know that every sacrifice she made truly mattered.

Our gift to her

After the community's announcement, so many of you asked how you could help beyond kind words. So we're coming together to give Marelin something she rarely gives herself: real time off.

All funds raised go towards Marelin's recovery, starting with a trip or retreat experience somewhere outside Madeira. Ideally somewhere with very little phone signal, close to nature, where she can breathe again and start to feel like herself.

Words from the community

A few of the messages shared for Marelin this week.

“Marelin was literally the first person I met when I came to this island six years ago… Within 24 hours she'd rented me her boss's house and introduced me to one of the first Thursday Hangouts. Without her I'd probably still be living out of those two suitcases and talking to myself.”

Adrian

“About 2 years ago, I first reached out to Madeira Friends when everything felt uncertain and I thought I'd leave Madeira. But you responded with so much kindness and care that everything felt a little lighter.”

Eli

“Marelin has the unique capacity to make anyone feel welcome and part of the community from day one.”

Thomas

“If there were more people like Marelin in this world, it would be a much better place.”

Andy

“I always wondered how she does it: how she answers every message and request with such warmth, empathy and excitement… She really deserves this time of rest and self-compassion, for however long she needs it.”

Franziska

“Marelin is a light in the dark and just a wonderful human.”

Paula

“She's done so much to connect us to the community… I hope that she can direct some of that upon herself for the healing she deserves.”

Joan

“God bless that tiny woman. Her heart is simply too big.”

Santa

The same way she took care of us

Every contribution, big or small, helps give Marelin the rest she deserves. Thank you for being part of this.