Hi, my name is Stephanie, and I’m a single, widowed mom reaching out for help to attend one of the most meaningful moments of my life: my daughter’s graduation from Cornell University.

My daughter has worked incredibly hard to earn scholarships and has funded her entire education through determination, grit, and academic excellence. Her graduation represents years of sacrifice and dedication—not just from her, but from our whole family.

Three years ago, we lost my husband unexpectedly. Since then, life has been incredibly challenging. I now work full-time as a Special Education Educational Assistant, earning about $28,000 a year. After my husband passed, my daughter and I moved into my late mother’s house. The home was over 30 years old and needed urgent repairs just to be livable. I used all of the small life insurance policy my mom left behind to fix the essentials: a water heater, some used appliances, electrical work, furnace servicing, and basic home repairs.

Recently, I suffered a knee injury that required medical attention and time off work. I’ve used up most of my leave and much of my limited savings trying to stay afloat. The little savings I had set aside to make the trip to Cornell are now gone—used for medical bills and living expenses.

My daughter’s graduation is not just a ceremony—it’s a promise fulfilled, a dream realized, and a symbol of everything we’ve endured and overcome. Her father and I used to talk about this day with hope. My mother did too. Now it’s just me. I want nothing more than to be there and cheer her on as she walks across that stage.

I’m humbly asking for your support to help cover the travel, lodging, and basic expenses to get to Cornell for her graduation. Every dollar makes a difference, and even if you can’t give, sharing this means the world.

Thank you for reading our story, and thank you for helping a mom witness her daughter’s proudest moment.

With gratitude,

Stephanie G