Fundraiser started for Toronto woman killed in boiling volcanic river

Friends and loved ones of a local Toronto woman have organized a fundraiser to help cover costs related to her untimely death.

According to a GoFundMe page, Maya Moreno, was on a spiritual journey in the Peruvian Amazon when she "fell into a volcanic river and sustained severe burns over 70 per cent of her body."

The page goes on to say that Moreno's tragic accident occurred while on a spiritual healing journey in a sacred spot of the rainforest.

"On Monday, March 24, while meditating near the extremely hot geothermal river, Maya fainted and tragically fell into the Boiling River, suffering severe burns over 70 per cent of the body," reads the page.

The Shanay-timpishka or Boiling River is a large geothermal river,  which has typical temperatures around 27 degrees C, but much higher temperatures have also been recorded, according to online sources. It is known for its healing properties and significant ties to the local culture.

Moreno was then treated in Peru under "strict medical isolation to reduce the risk of infection," while her brother travelled to the country to provide support, according to the page.

However, since Moreno’s condition was extremely serious and the hospital did not have enough resources, the campaign says an evacuation to Canada was critical.

"Surgery is required to preserve function in Maya's hands and feet—areas deeply affected by the burns. Without timely intervention, there is a serious risk of permanent damage and life-altering limitations," it read.

This evacuation was the main reason to start the campaign, as it stated that it would cost over $100,000 to fly Moreno back to Canada, where she did eventually seek treatment at The Ross Tilley Burn Centre at Sunnybrook.

However, an update on the page states that Moreno did not survive the accident and passed away on Saturday, April 5, "surrounded by love." At the time of publishing, more than $110K has been raised, which will now be used for debts, travel, and funeral costs.

A beloved community member, Moreno's passing has brought shock to the city, with many people reaching out to share their memories of her.

"Maya touched so many lives. She will be missed beyond words. The love that has risen in response to her story is a reflection of the luminous soul she was—and remains," reads the latest update on the fundraiser page.