My name is Paula, I'm 46 years old, the oldest of three daughters. Life has been an adventure, filled with love and laughter since I was born in Brazil, learning all I could about God and family, from my parents. I was the first to leave the nest, the first to get married and have kids. I came to the U.S. in 2001, where met my husband and built my life. I'm eternally grateful for my kids and my journey here, but...the highest price to pay is to be far away from my family and not being there when they need me there most. Now it's come the day where we are faced with what anyone fears the most, the end of a parent's life. More than 7 years ago, Mom was diagnosed with Corticobasal Degeneration which is a rare condition that can cause gradual loss of movement, speech, memory and swallowing. CBD is caused by an increasing number of brain cells dying or becoming damaged over time.

It started happening slowly in the beginning, but in the past 3 years, it accelerated and have really been the hardest years of my life. The helpless feelings of not being able to do anything and being so far away, are the worst and broke my heart to tiny little pieces. All I want is to spend the last days of my Mom's life with her, with my Dad and sisters. I want to be able to help with expenses and honor her life.

The love that unites our family is strong and will endure forever...but my heart is forever broken and life will never be the same without her.

At first I felt embarrassed to ask, but then I thought why can't I ask for help?! Isn't it why we are here on this planet, to grow, to learn and to help each other? So here I am asking for help...the funds collected will pay for round trip tickets for me and medical expenses for my Mom.

Thank you for reading and if you have any questions, please ask me. Don't feel bad if you can't help at all, instead pray for my family and know that God has us all in His hands.

With a grateful heart.