My name is Cheryl DeShong Atwood. I am 74 years old and retired, and I never imagined I would find myself in this position.

My husband, John David Atwood, passed away on March 5th, 2025, at the age of 73 after a long and courageous battle with cancer. He also lived with emphysema and diabetes for years and faced every part of his illness with dignity and strength.

David — as he preferred his middle name — was a man who believed in excellence in everything he did. Earlier in his career he managed several successful nightclubs, including Confetti, Élan, and Cowboys. People admired his leadership, fairness, and loyalty. He once rebuilt an entire nightclub team in New Orleans by bringing trusted staff from Dallas. That was who he was — no shortcuts, no excuses, deeply committed to the people around him. He loved baseball and pitched for local teams, and later in life he remained active in hospitality through catering and bartending events, always staying connected to his community and the people he cared about.

I have a son, and I don’t want him to have to shoulder my financial burden at this stage of life. That’s not a burden I want to place on him. He regularly calls me and helps me with anything I ask of him. He’s attentive, loving, and supports me in every way he can. He’s always there for me. He has a wife and his own financial responsibilities, and I don’t want to burden him with mine.

 My faith has been my strength during this difficult time. I believe there are times when we’re meant to lean on others, just as others have leaned on us. I’m not asking for help because I lack faith; I lack the means.

 After his passing, I’ve been working to stabilize during a difficult financial transition. Because there was no life insurance, I am navigating an unexpected gap while adjusting to life on a fixed Social Security income.

I want to remain independent, stable, and in my current home during my later years. At 74, returning to the workforce is not a realistic option, and my monthly resources simply do not stretch far enough to absorb the costs that followed his end-of-life care.

 This fundraiser is meant to support a longer transition period toward stability — a bridge that allows me to remain secure while I adjust and rebuild. I am doing everything I can to remain responsible and self-sufficient, and accepting help is not easy for me. But I also know community matters, and I am grateful for every act of kindness that makes moving forward possible.

 Donations are deeply appreciated, and sharing this page helps just as much. Some people prefer to give in smaller monthly amounts, and GoFundMe offers that option if it’s helpful. Every bit of support helps preserve independence, dignity, and stability during this chapter of my life. Thank you for taking the time to read my story and for being part of the path forward.