Hi, my name is Ariel, and I’m fundraising for my best friend—my sister—Samira.

Samira is losing her mom, Joyce, to cancer. Joyce is like a second mom to me; I’ve known her since I was 9 years old. She was the kind of woman who welcomed you into her home with open arms, always making her famous grape leaves and rice pudding. Her home was full of warmth, love, and comfort—and anyone lucky enough to know her felt it.

What makes this loss even more heartbreaking is that Samira has already lived this nightmare once before. She lost her dad to cancer at just 10 years old. Now, she is facing the pain of watching another parent slip away, all over again.

This week, Joyce came home on hospice care. Samira is now carrying an unimaginable weight—caring for her dying mother while also being a full-time working single mom to her 1-year-old son. To be present for her mom during these final moments, Samira has had to step back from work, creating an overwhelming financial strain during an already devastating time.

I’m raising money to help ease that burden—to help with bills, groceries, and everyday necessities—so Samira can focus on what truly matters right now: holding her mom’s hand, loving her, and being there for her child. I also hope to make Christmas possible for her family during a season that now feels incredibly heavy.

Samira’s birthday is December 23rd. She will be turning 35 while grieving, caregiving, and holding her family together. She is strong beyond words, but no one should have to be this strong.

Any donation—no matter the amount—will help more than you know. If you’re unable to donate financially, we are also accepting:

Toys for a 1-year-old

Gift cards to Kroger, Target, or similar stores

Please feel free to reach out to me directly if you’d like to help in that way.

Nothing can fix this loss, and nothing can take away this pain—but your kindness can help lift some of the weight Samira is carrying and remind her she is not alone.

Thank you for reading, sharing, donating, and keeping this family in your thoughts and prayers.

With love and gratitude,

Ariel