Over the past several years, life has brought more loss and hardship than I ever imagined possible. I first lost my husband to cancer, and later I lost my son when he was only 17 years old. Those losses alone were devastating, but last December our family received more heartbreaking news—my mother was diagnosed with stage-four cancer.

My mother, Judy, was the most selfless and caring woman I’ve ever known. She always believed that family takes care of family, and she lived that belief every day of her life. When she became sick, I made the decision to stop working so I could care for her full-time during her final months. Many people believe hospice provides full care, but in reality, most of that responsibility falls on family. I cared for my mom day and night until she passed away last May, the day before Mother’s Day. I would do it again in a heartbeat, but the experience took a tremendous emotional and financial toll. During that time, I used up all of my savings so I could stay home and be there for her. In addition to the emotional loss, we also had to finance my mother’s funeral expenses, which added another unexpected financial burden during an already difficult time.

Since losing my mom, I’ve been struggling with intense grief and cognitive difficulties. My memory has been severely affected, I often struggle to find words or speak clearly when I’m anxious, and concentrating on even simple tasks can be difficult. Doctors have also identified ADHD symptoms that have become much more severe during this time. Despite these challenges, I have been trying to move forward. I am currently studying to take the postal service exam so I can secure stable employment again. Unfortunately, the job I held for the last 12 years permanently closed just before Christmas, leaving me without income.

Right now, I am doing my best to keep going while also helping care for my stepfather, but I have reached a point where I simply cannot manage the financial strain alone. I am at risk of losing everything because I have no income coming in while I work to get back on my feet. I am asking for help during this incredibly difficult chapter of my life. Any donation will go toward basic living expenses—housing, utilities, food, transportation, and necessities—while I continue working toward employment and healing from the grief and trauma of the past year. If you are unable to donate, sharing this page would mean the world to me. Thank you for taking the time to read my story and for any kindness or support you can offer during this time.