Amber needs our help! Funeral and other expenses

My sister, Amber Dunphy, needs our help. Her husband, Michael Dunphy, died suddenly and unexpectedly this morning, August 10, 2022.

I've often described Amber and Michael as a modern-day Brady Bunch. Between them, they had 8 sons, ranging from 11 years old to 22 years old. Michael was the family's breadwinner, working long hours running his own business to make ends meet.

Then last year, tragedy struck. Michael and his twin 16-year-old sons, Jason and Nicholas, were involved in a devastating motor vehicle accident near their home in Wayne County. Sadly, Nicholas lost his life in that crash.

Michael suffered significant traumatic injuries as a result of the accident, including several fractured cervical and thoracic vertebrae, a laceration to his spleen, and bilateral collapsed lungs. After multiple surgeries, Michael began his long road to recovery. To compound matters, the family found themselves in serious financial trouble as Michael was incapable of working the family business.

After many months of doctor appointments and physical therapy, Michael was on the road to recovery. With the help of Amber's sons, they were able to save the family business and had begun digging themselves out of the financial hole of mounting medical debt and late bills.

Things were looking up and then tragedy struck again. This morning, without warning, Michael collapsed and stopped breathing. His wife began CPR, desperately trying to save the love of her life, while one of the boys dialed 911. First responders quickly arrived but were unsuccessful in saving Michael's life. Michael's exact cause of death is not yet known.

I, like so many others, can't begin to imagine the agony of losing a child. But to then lose your husband or wife, your partner, your person, less than a year later is almost beyond comprehension.

Amber and Michael were, like many of us, living paycheck-to-paycheck. Still dealing with the death of Nicholas last year, and now having to navigate this world without Michael, Amber shouldn't need to concern herself with how to pay for Michael's final expenses and her household expenses in the months ahead. Unfortunately, Michael had no life insurance.

It's unfathomable to think that, while mourning the loss of both a child and a spouse, she would need to worry about losing their home or figuring out how to put food on the table. She should not have to concern herself with money at this time.

I understand that, for many, times are tough and money is tight. But please, if you can find it in your heart to donate, no matter the amount, please do. Every little bit helps and God knows they need our help now.

Every dollar donated will help to pay for Michael's final expenses and the family's household bills.

If you're the praying type, please pray for God to give this family strength and comfort in this time of need. If you're not the praying type, please keep them in your thoughts.

And whether or not you can donate, please share this with others. Thank you.