Emma Bennetts-Holmes, Advocate for Medical Support, Passes Away at 23

Emma Bennetts-Holmes, a passionate advocate for medical support and inspiration behind the nonprofit organization Good Health Will, died on the evening of October 29, 2023, at the age of 23. Surrounded by her family in their home in Fort Collins, she succumbed to acute myeloid leukemia after a brave battle with the illness.

Bennetts-Holmes was a familiar face at Good Health Will, a nonprofit founded by her mother, Heather Bennetts. The organization emerged from Heather’s experiences as a caretaker for Emma, who required specialized medical equipment. After establishing connections with other parents of children with special needs, Heather recognized the potential for a community-driven initiative that would allow families to share essential medical supplies, from wheelchairs to colostomy bags.

In 2018, as Emma’s health began to decline, Heather stepped back from her role at Good Health Will. Prior to that, both mother and daughter were integral to the nonprofit’s operations. Emma was often seen at the facility, her infectious smile brightening the day for many visitors seeking medical equipment. Heather described how items that might typically end up in the trash were instead collected and redistributed to those in need, saying, “People wouldn’t know what to do with stuff, so we’d rescue it and stash it in the basement or the garage.”

The nonprofit grew significantly, establishing stores in Loveland and later a satellite location in Greeley. These facilities act as thrift stores for used medical equipment, allowing families to purchase necessary items at a fraction of their market value.

Emma’s life was enriched by travel, accompanying her mother and stepfather, Steven Bennetts, on business trips to locations such as Japan and Taiwan. Steven, an engineer, designed a specialized ceiling lift to enable Emma to navigate their home independently. He also created a collapsible walking device, allowing Emma to explore new places comfortably. “We wanted to be together,” Steven explained, emphasizing the family’s commitment to enriching Emma’s life.

Throughout her mother’s tenure at Good Health Will, Bennetts-Holmes remained a symbol of hope. Heather acknowledged the seriousness of the situations many clients faced, stating, “People don’t come to Good Health Will for kicks.” One poignant encounter involved a father expressing his guilt after an ATV accident left his son disabled. He found solace in Emma’s happiness, asking, “Is she really happy?” to which Heather confidently replied, “Yeah, she is. She has a really good life.”

In memory of their beloved daughter, the Bennetts have established “The Emma Grant,” intended to assist those in need of financial support for medical supplies. This grant will provide up to $250 per month to help individuals access essential resources.

Emma Bennetts-Holmes leaves behind a legacy of compassion and community support through Good Health Will. Her story highlights the importance of accessibility to medical equipment and the profound impact of familial love and advocacy in the healthcare landscape.