A father-to-be died after a rock climbing accident in California on July 12. Andy Paul Ferrarone, 33, fell approximately 20 feet near Castle Rock in Big Bear.
The San Bernardino County Sheriff's Aviation Unit responded to the incident around 5:25 p.m. According to the sheriff's department, Ferrarone slipped on a rocky slope. He sustained severe head trauma from the fall.
Rescuers hoisted Ferrarone to safety, and he was airlifted to Loma Linda University Medical Center. He remained on life support for several days before passing away on July 15.
Ferrarone is survived by his wife, Nina, who is nine weeks pregnant. A GoFundMe page established to support Nina states that she now faces preparing for parenthood alone and will need to manage rent, medical bills, and the costs associated with welcoming a child without Ferrarone.
The GoFundMe aims to ease Nina's financial burden by covering Ferrarone's medical expenses, rent, and baby necessities. Organizers stated their mission is to "honor Andy’s memory and ensure his legacy lives on through their baby."
Loved ones described the couple as "warm, outgoing, and full of love." Friends noted Ferrarone's passion for outdoor activities.
Ferrarone, originally from Philadelphia, was a software engineer. His obituary noted he was an avid adventurer, with interests including snowboarding, tennis, photography, sailing, and art. He was also born as part of a set of triplets. A friend described him as a "pro-level rock climber" and "expert at his craft."
As of Tuesday, the GoFundMe had surpassed $57,000 towards its $65,000 goal.