In 2023, my 17-year-old sister Maria lost both of our parents just weeks apart. It was an unimaginable tragedy that changed our lives forever. Maria is on the autism spectrum and is the most gentle, bright, and resilient soul I know. Since losing our parents, I’ve become her legal guardian and full-time caregiver.

We’ve faced an uphill battle emotionally, mentally, and financially. Grief doesn’t follow a rulebook and neither does life. We have done everything I can to keep things stable for Maria, but the weight of it all bills, basic needs, therapy, and planning for her future has become incredibly overwhelming.

We are starting this GoFundMe because Maria deserves a chance at the life she dreams of. She wants to go to college, and having reliable transportation would be a huge step toward her independence. I want to give her everything our parents would’ve wanted for her but I can’t do it alone.

Maria is the closest person to me in this world. She’s my heart, and I would give anything to see her thrive. But the truth is, we are struggling. With no parents to lean on, it’s just us and our little family. We want to give her stability, opportunity, and a life where she can grow without the constant stress of “how are we going to make it?”

If you find it in your heart to help whether by donating, sharing, or simply sending prayers, I thank you. Every little bit will help us take a step toward a better future for Maria.

From the bottom of our hearts,

Thank you.