I am Carlo, a 100% disabled veteran living in Oklahoma on a fixed income through SSDI, and I am asking for help so I can be with my mother in Vancouver, Washington while she is in hospice after a recent cancer diagnosis. We do not have family there, and I do not want my mom to be alone during her final days. This is especially important to me because my mother and I have been estranged for 16 years. Being able to make this trip gives me a chance to be present for her, rebuild our relationship, and share whatever time we still have before we say goodbye.

The support I receive will help me cover a place to stay, fuel for the drive from Oklahoma, and any unexpected expenses that come up while my mom is in hospice. It will also help me care for my service dog while I am in Washington, including food and veterinary needs. I am a proud and self-reliant person, so asking for help is not easy for me, but this moment means everything. After my mother passes, I hope to take her ashes to Wisconsin so she can be buried next to her mom, dad, and other family. If you are able to help in any way, please know that your kindness will help me be there for my mother when she needs family most.