Friends helping family of "doting" Geismar mom killed in accident | Community Spirit

Amber Roussel, 31,  of Geismar, was a "doting" mother to her two small children --Emmie, 3, and Ryan,1-- according to her friends.

Now, those friends are helping to make sure the children are still well taken care of after  Roussel was killed in an automobile accident in Beaumont, Texas on July 30.

The friends who are part of an extended virtual community of young mothers and fans of an online clothing store called Matilda Jane have raised more than $53,000 so far.

"We were all devastated," said Carrie Plummer, one of the organizers who lives in Kansas.  "She was one of us.  We're all mothers who like to dote on our children."

After hearing the devastating news, the friends set up the fund the next day.  Their initial goal was $3,000.

"Our goal was reached within an hour," Plummer says. "It's been really heartwarming."

Now they've added an online auction which includes donated items such as clothing and jewelry and other things.

Her husband, Ryan whose father is St. James Parish President Timmy Roussel,  says the outpouring of love is very touching.

"My wife was the absolute best person I ever met and this just shows me she had an impact on all these people across the country and she was very loved," Ryan says.  "It touches my heart beyond belief."

If you'd like to donate, go to http://indiegogo.com/amberroussel

http://hyenacart.com/auctionsforamber

http://hyenacart.com/matildajaneclothing