My father passed away on Friday, April 3rd, 2026. He did not have life insurance, and his illness began in February with pneumonia. My mom reached out to me, sensing something was wrong, and because I have always been extremely close to my father, I flew from Lebanon, Missouri, to South Carolina to be with him. He was admitted to the hospital for almost a month, then sent to a rehabilitation center, where his condition worsened. He was sent back to the hospital with double pneumonia and heart failure. His heart was only working at 30%, and he was also diagnosed with onset dementia.

I flew back home again to see him, and we were told there was nothing more medically that could be done. It was decided he would come home on hospice care to be with my mom, myself, and my sister, receiving only comfort measures. My dad declined quickly and passed away. My mother and I were there every second, witnessing the most difficult experience imaginable—watching my father go from alert to a coma state and taking his last breath. My sweet dad held on for my parents' 49th wedding anniversary and to see or hear from his grandchildren and daughters.

This past month has been extremely expensive, with three trips between Missouri and South Carolina and missed work. My father's funeral is planned for April 18th, giving me time to gather funds to return for his service. My mom and sister are doing everything they can to arrange a cremation service for my father. I am reaching out to friends, family, and anyone who may be able to help. Your support would mean so much, helping me return home for my father's funeral and catch up on bills after putting everything aside to be there for my family.