Lidia Mendes, the widow of Rui Mendes, needs help after the heartbreaking loss of her husband. Lidia and Rui were married for 18 years and shared 25 years together. Rui passed away on April 8th, 2026, after a long battle with his health, including multiple myeloma and renal failure. His loss has left Lidia grieving while also facing urgent financial challenges because of the medical and funeral bills. Rui did not have life insurance or savings, and he had been living on Social Security.

Now Lidia is trying to manage Rui’s medical bills, funeral expenses, and everyday living expenses during this incredibly difficult time. As she mourns, she is also waiting for the paperwork to be completed so Rui’s Social Security benefits can be transferred to her. Until that process is finished, she needs support to help cover essential costs and stay afloat.

This fundraiser is to help ease some of that burden so Lidia can focus on grieving and adjusting to life after Rui’s passing. Any donation, no matter the size, will make a meaningful difference. If you are not able to give, sharing this fundraiser with others would also be a tremendous help. Thank you for supporting Lidia during this painful time.