"Help Helen Find Peace On Her Final Journey"

Dear Friends, Family, and Kind Souls,

Today, we reach out to you with a story that is both heartbreaking and inspiring, a story about our “mother” Helen as we fondly call her and who is very dear to our hearts. At 68 years young, Helen's journey is one of strength, resilience, and the unyielding spirit of survival. Helen, a widow with no relatives in the United States, has been bravely facing life's challenges alone. I, along with the Filipino families here in Deming, New Mexico, have become her support network, her family in this country.

Her courage was put to the test in March 2022, when she received a diagnosis that would change her life forever – Stage 4 Lung Cancer. We have had the privilege of taking her to her medical appointments, witnessing firsthand her pains and unyielding fight against this illness.

Despite the shock and fear, Helen faced this news with unwavering determination. For the past year, she has been on a regimen of cancer medication, fighting each day with hope and bravery. We have seen her endure unimaginable suffering, sitting by her side as she bravely faced each chemotherapy session, silently weeping from the excruciating pain in her thin, weak body, but never losing hope. However, her battle took a harsher turn recently. The cancer has metastasized to her liver, spine, bones, and brain, and she is now being transferred to a hospice facility where she will spend her remaining days.

Adding to the urgency of this situation, a family member from the Philippines is currently processing paperwork to come be with Helen. When Helen passes, this family member will need to take her back home to the Philippines, which is a very costly process.

As someone who has always lived a life of independence and self-reliance, asking for help doesn't come easy to her. But in times like these, even the strongest among us need a helping hand. This is where we come in. This GoFundMe is more than just a fundraiser; it's a beacon of support for Helen. It's our way of telling her, "You are not alone." The funds we raise will directly help in paying for her medical treatments, hospice care, and supporting her family during this difficult time, including the expenses of bringing her back to the Philippines.

Helen's story is not just a tale of illness; it's a testament to human strength and the power of community. By contributing to this cause, you're not just helping with medical bills; you're offering emotional support and solidarity. You're sending a message that in her fight against cancer, Helen has an army of supporters standing with her.

We understand that not everyone may be in a position to donate financially, but your support can take many forms. Sharing this story, sending words of encouragement, or simply keeping Helen in your thoughts means the world to us. Together, let's show Helen that no one fights alone. Let's give her the gift of peace of mind and the strength to keep fighting. Every moment counts, every dollar matters, but most importantly, every act of kindness echoes in eternity.

Thank you for taking the time to read about Tita Helen. Thank you for your kindness, generosity, and support. May God bless you abundantly!

With heartfelt gratitude,

Deming Filipino Community