Help Overcome a Heartbreaking Loss

Introduction:

I'm Chris Jensen, a 54-year-old security officer at the Kansas City Art Institute. I find myself in a situation I never thought I would face - losing both of my parents within just four days. This has left me overwhelmed, devastated, and uncertain about the future.

About My Parents:

My parents not only provided me with a home and warm meals, but allowed me to be who I wanted to even if it deviated from their preferences. They nurtured me to become a creative and kind person. My father, passionate about life, drove and built race cars, constructed off-grid homesteads, and had a deep love for model car building. Meanwhile, my mother was a devoted homemaker who worked for the DSHS for many years. She found joy in playing solitaire and collecting recipes.

The Devastating Loss:

My father battled late-stage dementia and left us on Friday, January 12th. Following this heart-wrenching loss, my mother, who suffered from congestive heart disease and kidney failure, passed away on Tuesday, January 15th.

The Financial Strain:

I returned only a few weeks ago from Washington to help my mother with the daunting task of navigating my fathers dementia diagnosis and his move to a long term care facility. I spent two weeks with my mother, visiting my father and driving from Concrete Washington to Bellingham, Mount Vernon and even Seattle. Thanks to a long time friend I was able to borrow a car and some gas money. I drove hundreds of miles during that time and spent a month's wages. Upon return, I had to borrow money to pay my rent.

As an only child, I now face the daunting task of finalizing the expenses related to their passing. These include ambulance fees, cremation costs, outstanding medical bills, and rent for storage facilities to carefully sort and preserve their personal belongings.

Specific Costs:

Additionally, I need to cover airfare to Washington and back, where their final arrangements will take place. Living in Kansas City, Missouri, this adds an extra layer of financial strain.

Our Financial Situation:

My family has never been wealthy, and none of us are college educated. Unfortunately, there's no life insurance, and the only possibility is a modest $255 lump sum from the SSA for an unmarried child.

How You Can Help:

I'm reaching out to you, my friends, family, and compassionate strangers, for assistance during this incredibly challenging time. Any contribution, no matter the size, will go a long way in helping me navigate these unexpected and overwhelming expenses.

Thank You in Advance:

I want to express my heartfelt gratitude in advance for considering supporting me during this difficult period. Your kindness means the world to me.

Updates and Transparency:

I commit to providing regular updates here on my GoFundMe page, ensuring transparency about how the funds are utilized to honor my parents' memory.

Please Share:

If you're unable to contribute financially, sharing this campaign within your network is equally appreciated.

Thank you for consideration and empathy during this challenging journey.

Chris Jensen