Mom raises best friend's four daughters after their mother's death

Mom raises best friend's four daughters after their mother's death

(You Caring)


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BUFFALO, N.Y. — Have you ever been part of a friendship so strong you'd do anything the other person asked of you?

A Buffalo woman opened her home to her best friend's four young daughters when cancer took their mother's life too soon.

Laura Ruffino and Elizabeth Diamond have been best friends since the fifth grade, according to Today Parents. Their friendship withstood the test of time, as the two women married and eventually began raising their families in Buffalo.

"She had the best laugh, most positive attitude and was the least judgmental person I'd ever met," Ruffino told Today.

Then, in August of last year, Diamond — now divorced and with her ex-husband completely out of the picture — received life-altering news: She had brain cancer. Her condition quickly worsened, and it became clear that she didn't have long to live, according to Today.

Ruffino stayed by her best friend's side throughout the heartbreaking ordeal — driving her to and from doctor appointments and caring for Diamond's four daughters — ranging in age from 5 to 12. One day, Diamond asked her friend the ultimate favor: to care for her children should she die.

"You'd think it'd be some in-depth conversation, but it was pretty casual because of course I'd do that for her," Ruffino said. "I'd do anything for her."

Sadly, the day came when Diamond needed to cash in that favor. She passed away at the age of 40 this April.

Ruffino made good on her promise and welcomed Diamond's daughters with open arms. She and her husband — who have two daughters of their own — effectively doubled their family overnight.

"I didn't even have to think about it," she said. "If something gets thrown at you, just accept the challenge and do the best you can. That's what we're doing."


I didn't even have to think about it. If something gets thrown at you, just accept the challenge and do the best you can. That's what we're doing.

–Laura Ruffino


Ruffino said the transition hasn't always been an easy one, but she has no regrets.

"Since we're a family of eight now, every meal feels like a small dinner party and the laundry never stops," she told Today.

*A You Caring fundraiser on behalf of the Ruffino family has raised more than $101,000 so far to help with things such as a larger car and the addition of extra rooms to their home, according to the page. The money will also go towards daily living expenses such as food and clothing.

"It is the most beautiful thing we've ever seen," the You Caring page reads. "The marriage of both families is a true testament to humanity. The family has trouble asking for help because they have always been so self-sufficient, but it takes a village to raise a child."

*Disclaimer: ksl.com has not verified the accuracy of the information provided with respect to the account nor does ksl.com assure that the monies deposited will be applied for the benefit of the persons named as beneficiaries. If you are considering a deposit or donation you should consult your own advisors and otherwise proceed at your own risk.*

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