I’m reaching out because I don’t have anywhere else to ask for help. My dad passed away on December 19, 2025, after a long battle with heart and lung issues, chronic pneumonia, and a broken hip. He had been in the hospital for weeks, and that was the last time he was home. My dad was the funniest and kindest man you could ever meet. He could fix anything and loved inventing silly games and toys for his granddaughters. He was a proud papa to two beautiful girls, and in his final days, his bird was his constant companion.

He loved all of his family, near and far, and spoke of them often. Family meant everything to him, and he always made sure we knew how much he cared.

He was the best friend and companion to my mom, Gloria, who we lost to cancer three years ago. Since then, it’s been just him and us. He lived next door to me, which made it easier for me to be his caretaker. Even though he wasn’t my biological dad, we developed a deep bond—he provided for me growing up, and I tried to do the same for him in his final years. Now, I’m struggling to give him the farewell he deserves. He didn’t have any prepaid funeral arrangements or assets to help cover the costs. I need to pay for one more month of rent for his apartment so I have time to clear out his things, but I can’t afford to take time off work or cover these expenses on my own. I’ve already sold some of my own belongings and a few of his, but it’s not enough.

He was a wonderful man, and we will miss him dearly. I know you all would have loved him, too. Anything will help relieve some of this stress for me this holiday season.