Readers help Kansas father of five, including infant triplets, after wife dies

Readers stepped up big this past week for Casi Rott’s family out on the farm near Clay Center, Kan.

A story March 6 in The Star told how Rott died shortly after returning home from a hospital after giving birth to triplets, leaving her husband, Joey, with the new babies along with daughters Chloe, 7, and Tenley, 2.

This past week, more than $50,000 in donations came into a GoFundMe account.

Joey Rott, 33, is busy these days with the kids and a full-time job, but on Friday he took a moment to say thanks.

“These are people I don’t even know, and I guess they read what happened and wanted to help me and the kids,” he said.

“It’s very humbling, and I just want to say thanks.”

The donations ranged from $5 to $2,000. Most were round numbers; one was $14. The majority came anonymously. Others came with names and messages.

A woman who gave $20 wrote: “Your wife watches over your family through every one of us taking a moment to offer a token of financial relief during your time of unimaginable loss. God bless you all. Although it won’t be the same, you’ll have beautiful lives together.”

Another wrote: “I wish you and your children the best. I really hope that life provides you all that a mother would hope. I know that you have hope as well. Hang on and remember that sometimes the universe actually has some continuity even when it seems that chaos has taken hold. I am truly sorry for your loss.”

Some just wrote: “Hope this helps.”

One giver touched on the story’s discussion of how the farmhouse, which Casi Rott remodeled and decorated, had become a place of grief and happiness.

“I am really sorry for your loss. My heart ached to read this story. God bless you and your beautiful kids. They are adorable. I can not imagine your suffering and your joy.”

The fund was set up shortly after Casi Rott, 36, died Feb. 8, 10 days after the triplets were born. As of Saturday afternoon, it stood at $125,760 from 2,399 donations.

Casi Rott had been secretary at an elementary school in Clay Center.

Joey Rott also reported that the babies — Levi, Asher and Piper — had a doctor appointment Tuesday.

“They’re doing great and growing like a weed. Let them all know that.”

This story was originally published March 11, 2016 at 1:23 PM.