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Little Rapids guitar builder returning from Sweden after harrowing ordeal

A Newfoundland woman is touched by the support she's receiving to move home from Sweden, in the wake of a her partner's sudden death.

Sharleen Simmons of Little Rapids moved to Europe almost two years ago with her Swedish partner Gustav Fredell, where they set up shop — making and selling custom guitars.

However, this past winter, Fredell committed suicide.

The ordeal left Simmons in immigration limbo in Sweden, so she decided to move home, but moving herself and all her guitar-making equipment has proven to be a deeply costly venture.

"There's been a lot of questions on how to proceed from here," she said.

"I have a full workshop full of machines and wood, and all of that stuff needs to come home."

Returning home with the help of friends

Simmons said while she enjoyed her time overseas, she felt it was time to return to the comforts of home.

"It's been difficult because I love Sweden and I love being here. At the same time I was only here for him, and everything I see is a reminder of him."

"I made a phone call to the immigration board, and my visa here was based on my relationship with Gustav."

To help out, her friends started an online campaign which has already raised over $10,000.

Simmons said she's astonished by the support she's received.

"It's unexpected and just incredible," she said.

"I can't believe it, I've had support from around the world — from friends old and new, and from complete strangers."

She said she can't express enough how grateful she is for the support.

"I keep saying thank you and that I appreciate it," she said.

"Words never seem like enough to describe how amazing it's been and the burden that it's lifted from my shoulders."