GRESHAM, Ore. -- Loved ones are grieving the death of Gresham woman who died just days after contracting the flu.
Tandy Harmon, 36, died Jan. 19. The single mother left behind an 11-year-old daughter and 12-year-old son.
“I loved Tandy,” said Harmon’s boyfriend, Steve Lundin. “I loved being with her.”
Lundin said Harmon started feeling sick about a week before she died, and went to the doctor to get checked out. She went home, hoping to rest and get better, but Lundin said things got much worse.
“The doctors told us that she had the flu and then the flu opened up the gates for MRSA to set in and she had walking pneumonia,” said Lundin. “They said that's like a worst-case scenario that doesn't often happen.”
Harmon worked as a server at Bradford's Sports Lounge in Northeast Portland. She was going to be a bridesmaid in her best friend’s wedding at Bradford’s on Feb. 27. The lounge plans to host a celebration of life for Harmon on Feb. 10.
“Tandy was an amazing person, fun-loving, always joyful,” said Bradford’s owner, Brad Foutes. “All of the customers loved her and there have been customers crying in here for a week.”
Bradford’s is raising money for Harmon’s children with menu specials, like chili dogs. Foutes said suppliers including Franz Bread, Zenner’s and Sysco donated ingredients so proceeds from the specials could go to Harmon's children.
“I think she would be smiling in heaven for that,” said Foutes.
Lundin started a GoFundMe account to raise money for funeral expenses and for Harmon’s kids.
“There aren’t words to thank everyone for all the love and support,” said Lundin.
Besides support for Harmon's kids, Lundin hopes to raise awareness in light of Harmon’s death.
“The flu is no joke. You never know when it's going to be severe or not,” said Lundin. “Hopefully everybody keeps their eyes open and cares about each other.”