Hello, and thank you for taking the time to read our story. I’m reaching out on behalf of my family in Totatiche, a small rural town in Jalisco, Mexico. The town where my parents grew up and that we visited often through the years.

After enjoying a family picnic over the weekend my cousins were involved in a horrific car accident that left three family members hospitalized, fighting through injuries and uncertainty. Most tragic of all, we lost my cousin, Cristofina Casas Gutiérrez, the beloved mother and grandmother to those who were with her in the vehicle. She also leaves behind her husband, Guillermo, who was traveling the same route in a different vehicle that thankfully was not involved in the crash.

We are trying our best to support them through unimaginable pain.

In Mexico, medical care often requires upfront payment, and without the type of insurance coverage we’re accustomed to in the U.S., the financial strain is overwhelming. Between urgent medical expenses, unexpected funeral costs, the loss of the family vehicle, and the inability to work during this difficult time, the family’s resources are quickly being exhausted. Many of us have already given what we could outside of this fund, but have not been able to meet all the needs.

This is why we’re turning to our community—near and far—for support. Any contribution, no matter how small, truly makes a difference. Please consider a small donation today.

From the bottom of our hearts, thank you for your compassion, your generosity, and mostly for your prayers.

”Not all of us can do great things, but we can do small things with great love.” - Mother Teresa

Info on Pictures attached: My cousin, Cristofina, and her husband, Guillermo, made their way to Chicago this summer. It was their first time they traveled outside of Mexico. It was such a pleasure to get to spend quality time with them and to show them some of our favorite places! Cristofina even took the time out of her vacation to cook up some of our mom’s favorites. I will treasure these moments forever.