Infant Dies After 94-Day Medical Battle, Somerset County Restaurant Owners Grieve

SOMERVILLE, NJ — Reagan, the 3-month-old daughter of the owners of Surf, Turf, & Earth in Somerville, has died following a 94-day fight, parents Byron and Mackenzie Salazar shared on Friday.

"Our beautiful sweet sweet daughter, Reagan, has taken her last breath," said the Salazars. "We fought for her. We prayed for her. We did everything we could for 94 days. And though our hearts are shattered beyond words and life seems completely unfair, we find peace knowing she is finally free from pain."

Reagen was born on May 25 and was immediately transferred to the Children's Hospital of Philadelphia for emergency heart surgery. She was diagnosed with a serious health challenge and has remained ever since.

"Our angel was here for far too short a time, but she changed us forever. We will carry her with us for the rest of our lives," said the Salazars.

A GoFundMe fundraiser, "Rally for Reagan: Somerville Stands Together," was launched July 12 by the Monetti Family to help cover medical expenses, treatment and everyday costs associated with caring for Reagan, including time away from work and the restaurant.

The family said community support had been a source of help during Reagan's illness.

"Thank you all so much for immense amount of community support; the love, the donations, the rallying. We are grateful beyond words," said the Salazars.

They also asked for privacy as they grieve.

"Continue to keep our family in your thoughts, and respect our privacy as we grieve the unimaginable loss of our daughter. Fly free, Reagan. Until we meet again,"said the family.

The family said the community event called "Rally for Reagan" planned for Saturday, Sept. 26, from 10 a.m. to 2 p.m. on Division Street, will go forward because of ongoing financial needs.

"The event of Sept 26 will still be held as the family now has the financial burden to deal with," according to the GoFundMe.

The family also urged supporters to keep sharing the fundraiser, support the restaurant and take part in the event.

For more information or to donate, visit gofundme.com/f/rally-for-reagan-somerville-stands-together.

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