Help Cover Tito Jo’s Funeral & Medical Costs
On February 23rd, 2021, my Tito Jo, father to Harvey and Hironiza, and husband to Edna, passed away due to cardiac arrest and organ failure. Although Tito Jo is in Philippines, this sudden death has been so unbelievably devastating to my family here in Canada. My dad facetimes and calls his brother and sisters everyday...all I wanted to do was hug my dad while he found out, alone, isolating in a hotel room. If it weren’t for covid and financial strain my family would be going to Philippines or I would be going to Edmonton to grieve this loss with my parents. But with the Gahcho Kue Mine outbreak leaving my dad’s job on the line, I can’t help but carry the stress and worry of covering these costs that my family alone can’t cover. Additionally,
“Death is a morbid topic that most people find disturbing to discuss. However, it is an undeniable reality. According to 2016 data from the Philippine Statistics Authority, an average of 1,591 individuals die each day in the Philippines. The finality of death does not only take a toll on emotions; it also affects our finances.
Money matters are typically unwelcomed in Filipino conversations – we find them inappropriate. So, when money and death come together, they become even harder to talk about for most Filipinos. It’s not hard to see why there is a lack of knowledge and understanding among Filipinos on the financial aspect of dying” (Adrian, M., 2016. The real cost of dying. Retrieved from https://www.imoney.ph/articles/cremation-funeral-cost-of-death/)
If you know us, especially my parents, this is not something we normally ask for. My mom and dad (stella and rey) are the most selfless and caring people I know. They give give give whatever they can even if that meant they would be left with absolutely nothing. Right now my family is vulnerable but they also wouldn’t dare to reach out like this in serious time of need. As a Filipino family this is an uncomfortable thing to ask for, especially publicly.
Today, I am reaching out to you in hopes to help my family in the Philippines cover the funeral and medical bills. The funeral took place on Friday, February 26th, 2021. As a second generation immigrant, I carry the financial stress of my family whether I want to or not. They worked front line jobs, multiple at times, just to keep afloat and ensure Reiner and I had everything we needed as kids, and they still do. I am obligated and owe it to be covering as much as I can just allow my parents and family to grieve. My family in the Philippines simply cannot afford the costs and neither can my parents..I know they are hurting and if I could somehow help alleviate the financial burden by reaching out to others for $5 or $10 I know it would mean the world to my parents and the rest of my family in Philippines.
Thank you so much for taking the time to read this, and keeping us in your thoughts and prayers. Mahal na mahal kita tito jo, wala ka nang sakit. Rest In Peace
With love,
Jessa
