Please Provide Stability for Family of Former Hospice Nurse

Hello, my name is Katie Bocetti. My sister, Emily, and I created this page to ask for your help during a very difficult time in our lives. This year, we experienced the devastating loss of both of our parents, Mary and Anthony Bocetti. We’re now facing significant financial hardships in their absence. We know that many people are going through their own struggles, and we understand that money is tight for everyone right now. But if you’re able, we’d be truly grateful if you could take a moment to read our story and, if possible, make a donation in honor of our parents to help us regain our footing.

OUR STORY:

In March 2024, my dad passed away after complications related to pre-existing medical conditions. The loss was heartbreaking, but with time, we were beginning to adjust. We focused on honoring his memory and supporting my mom as she navigated life on a single income. But just a few months later, in June, our world was turned upside down when my mom was suddenly diagnosed with stage 4 lung cancer. Her initial scans revealed extensive metastasis to her brain, spine, and ribs.

I immediately took leave from my job in Washington to return to Pittsburgh to be with her. During this time, we were faced with the overwhelming challenge of settling my dad’s affairs while also starting my mom on an aggressive treatment regimen. A longtime registered nurse with a history in hospice care, my mom was forced to retire at 63, which meant she lost access to many benefits. She underwent two rounds of intensive radiation and five rounds of chemotherapy before her doctor advised discontinuing treatment. Shortly after, she was enrolled in home hospice care. Three weeks later, she was transferred to a 24-hour hospice facility, where she passed away on January 15, 2025—just 10 months after my dad.

Now, I am living in my mom’s home in Pittsburgh, caring for our senior dog and cat, and trying to figure out what comes next. The immediate financial challenges are overwhelming.

FUNDS NEEDED:

Funeral Expenses: My mom chose to donate her body to science in an effort to reduce funeral costs, but we still owe over $1,000 to the funeral home for their services.

Housing Stability: My mom’s income, which came from Social Security and a small widow’s pension, covered the mortgage and utilities. With her passing, those funds have stopped, and I’m struggling to keep up with these essential expenses. Although I am actively searching for a job (or two), my current income is limited to unemployment benefits, which only cover food, personal bills, and medication for our senior dog.

How Your Contributions Will Help:

1. Pay off the funeral home’s remaining balance.

2. Cover the mortgage and utilities for the next one to two months.

3. Provide a financial buffer while I search for employment and prepare the house for sale.

Any amount you can contribute will make a meaningful difference. If you're unable to donate, sharing this campaign with others would also mean the world to us. Thank you for taking the time to read our story, and for your compassion and support during this incredibly difficult time. We are deeply grateful for your kindness.