As many of you know, I recently lost my dad, and my heart is shattered. Grief is not something that can be rushed, but unfortunately, the reality of bills and daycare costs doesn’t pause when life does.

I work as a registered nurse on an acute cardiothoracic unit at Duke, a role I love but one that is also incredibly taxing—emotionally, physically, and mentally. As of right now, I am scheduled to return to work on October 16th, far sooner than I feel ready, simply because I cannot afford to take more time off without financial help. My hope is to be able to extend my time away until the week of Thanksgiving, giving me the space I need to grieve, regroup, and be present for my family.

Daycare expenses alone are enormous, and with everyday bills stacked on top, I feel the weight of financial stress on top of my grief. Every dollar contributed here will go directly toward helping me cover living costs, childcare, and essentials so I can take the time I desperately need to process, heal, and be present for my son.

I cannot express how much your support, whether through donations, sharing this campaign, or keeping me in your prayers, means to me during this time. From the bottom of my heart, thank you for helping me find the space to grieve and breathe

— Mariah M. (AKA Dad’s “silly girl”)