A Mothers Plea for a Beloved Daughter

My 41-year-old daughter, Amanda, is in the final days of her battle with Myotonic Muscular Dystrophy Type 1. Yesterday, hospice told me she may have just two weeks left. I have been by her side every step of the way, and now I am facing the heartbreaking reality of laying her to rest.

I want to provide Amanda with a direct cremation through Alternative Cremations, a compassionate local provider who has agreed to work with me. The total cost is $1,100, with a $500 down payment required at the time of her passing and the remaining balance due in three payments. While Alternative Cremations can accept direct payments, they are only able to do so after Amanda has passed. That leaves little time to raise the funds, which is why I need to prepare now.

I never imagined I would have to bury another child. I have already lost my eldest daughter, Rachael (27), my stillborn son Phillip, and another baby in the first trimester. No parent should have to endure this once, let alone multiple times.

I have been a caregiver for years, supporting others in their most vulnerable times. My most recent long-term client passed away two months ago, and while I have just started with a new client, flu season has made work unpredictable. I am doing everything I can, but the financial strain is immense. My grandson, Ezra, a dedicated third-year college student at the University of Oklahoma, relies on Amanda’s small disability allotment for living expenses. After his recent motorcycle accident, we have been sharing my car so he can continue his education.

In a perfect world, I would take time to grieve, but I do not know how I can manage financially. I am asking for help—not just for myself, but to give Amanda the dignity she deserves in her final arrangements. Any contribution, no matter the amount, would mean the world to me and my family during this time of loss.

Amanda’s 42nd birthday is on March 2nd. As that day approaches, I’m doing everything I can to honor her and ensure her final wishes are met. Your support would mean the world to me and help give her the peaceful farewell she deserves

If you cannot donate, please consider sharing this. Your kindness and support mean more than I can express.

With gratitude,

Donna Ward