My name is Breonna Wilson, and I recently lost my dad, Darnell Wilson, in a tragic and very public situation. At 23 years old, I never expected to suddenly be responsible for making the decisions and arrangements that come with losing a parent.

Because my dad and his most recent spouse are divorced, I am legally considered his next of kin. That means I am responsible for authorizing the release of his body and arranging his funeral. These responsibilities came very unexpectedly, and I simply do not have the financial resources to cover these costs.

I’m also trying to be there for my younger brother, Tristan (15), as we both process losing our dad.

Many people in the community knew my dad through his work at Costco but also as a Central Michigan Alumnus. Customers often went out of their way to visit him at the self-checkout, and last year he was even recognized locally for the positive impact he had on people during their everyday shopping trips. Hearing those stories has meant a lot to me during this difficult time.

At the same time, I understand that people experienced my dad and his life in different ways. His life and the circumstances surrounding his passing have brought up many emotions and conversations in the community. I respect that people may hold different perspectives, and I’m not asking anyone to change how they feel.

This fundraiser is not meant to excuse or dismiss anyone’s experiences. I am simply navigating the reality of losing my father and the responsibilities that have come with his passing.

Regardless those complexities, I am still his daughter, and I have been placed in the position of handling the difficult responsibilities that come with his passing.

I’m asking for help so I can:

• Cover funeral expenses

• Travel to coordinate arrangements and attend services

• Take necessary time away from work

• Support myself and my younger brother during this time

I am currently working while paying for my college education out-of-pocket, and these life responsibilities are overwhelming.

Although my dad had a life insurance policy, those funds have already been allocated and are unavailable to me.

Because of this, I am seeking help from the community to handle the immediate responsibilities and expenses related to his passing.

If more money is raised than what is needed for funeral and immediate expenses, it will help cover travel, time away from work, and educational costs as my brother and I move forward.

Thank you to anyone who is able to donate, share this page, or send support. It truly means more than I can express during this difficult time.