Central Maine Community Supports Winthrop Family After Sudden Death of Daughter

17-year-old Kelsey Stoneton of Winthrop died suddenly early Saturday (Aug. 2) morning after collapsing Friday (Aug. 1) because of a pulmonary embolism. What a horrendous shock for the family and the community.

Kelsey's dad, Joel Stoneton, is athletic director and dean of students at Winthrop’s high and middle schools. Kimberly Stoneton, Kelsey’s mother, is the owner of Bloom, a downtown Winthrop hair salon. Since she opened in August 2011, Kim has donated her time at several community events, cutting hair for worthy causes. Kelsey was a standout field hockey player and as described on a special fundraising page that has been set up, she was the "most amazing girl, with the most beautiful smile anyone had ever seen."

Central Maine has acted quickly to support the Stoneton family with already $10,000 raised in just two days.

Other events are already planned for this week.

Thursday, August 7, from 4pm – 8pm there will be a benefit at The Red Barn, Riverside Drive, Augusta. 50% of all sales will be donated to the Stoneton family from the Red Barn Cares Foundation.
Friday, August 8, from 5pm – 9pm stop by Fast Eddie's Drive In in Winthrop. All proceeds will benefit the family. You are also welcome to stop by anytime and make a donation to 'Kelsey's Jar.' Kelsey was a waitress at Fast Eddie's and was hugely popular among their customers.
Saturday, August 9, 4pm – 7pm come in to the Winthrop House of Pizza on Main Street. They will donate their profits to the Stoneton family.
Fielder's Choice Ice Cream in Manchester posted this on their facebook page: We employ ..."nine Winthrop students who have been deeply impacted by this tragedy. These kids, as well as our other Manchester employees, have decided to donate all their tips to the Stoneton family that they collect through Sunday, August 10. We will match any donations in the tip jar collected. These kids are classmates of Kelsey's and really wanted to do something to honor her, her memory, and her family. Thank you in advance for your generosity.

Kelsey's friend and co-worker Chloe and Niki from the Winthrop House of Pizza talk about the upcoming fundraisers.