Help Kaeli Care for Her Mom Erin at Home in Her Final Months

Hi, my name is Kaeli, and I’m fundraising to care for the woman who’s given me everything—my mom, Erin Collins.

Ten years ago, my mom moved us to New York City to build a better life. I’m an only child, and from the very beginning, it’s been just the two of us. She’s my home, my heart, and my best friend. We’ve walked through every season of life together—and now, I’m trying to walk her through the hardest one yet.

Three years ago, my mom was diagnosed with Stage 4 Small Cell Lung Cancer. She fought through chemotherapy, radiation, and immunotherapy with incredible strength. But now the cancer has returned. It’s metastasized, and we’ve been given the heartbreaking news that there’s nothing more treatment can do. Her hospice team has given her a six-month prognosis.

We’ve chosen to begin hospice care at home—where she feels safe, comfortable, and surrounded by love. I’ve been her full-time caregiver, managing medications, feeding her, helping her move, comforting her through pain and fear, and simply being there to hold her hand. I took 12 weeks of family medical leave to care for her—but that time is over now, and I’ve had to return to work just to survive financially.

My goal now is to cut back my work hours so I can continue to be here for her, without putting our stability at risk. Private in-home hospice care is far beyond what we can afford.

My family has done everything they possibly can—they’ve flown in to help, supported us emotionally and logistically, and continue to be there from afar with love and strength. My boyfriend has also been incredibly supportive throughout these last 3 years, but he works a full-time job. He helps when he can, but her care is intensive and constant. I’m so grateful for them.

On the few days I absolutely must go to work, my mom’s amazing friend drives over two hours just to be with her, helping however she can. But this situation is becoming too much to manage alone—and still hold a job.

Your support will help us:

• Keep my mom at home, not in a hospice facility

• Hire in-home hospice support for the hours I can’t be with her

• Provide essential medical supplies, meals, and comfort needs

• Allow me to cut back my hours so I can continue to care for her in the way she deserves

My mom is everything to me. These final months are precious, and I want to give her dignity, love, and peace in the comfort of our home. I want to be present with her, not torn between caregiving and survival.

If you’re able to donate, share, or send love—thank you. Your support means the world to us, and it’s helping me give my mom the same care and devotion she’s given me all my life.

With love and deep gratitude,

Kaeli