Hi everyone, my name is Amanda, and I’m reaching out with a heavy heart. My little sister, Cynthia, passed away unexpectedly, and our family is now faced with the overwhelming challenge of giving her the farewell she deserves. 
 
Cindy was about to turn 41 this September. She was a devoted mother of two teenage boys, the middle child among three siblings, and a beloved daughter, niece,and friend. She had a heart that gave so much to everyone around her, and now, we want to honor that spirit by giving her the loving farewell she deserves. 
 
Why We Need Your Help: 
 
As a proud member of the Army National Guard from Massachusetts, Cindy served her country with dedication for over a decade. She served in Operation Iraqi Freedom in 2007-2008, She was in the Honor Guard and more. Unfortunately, after she retired 12 years ago, she never submitted the required paperwork to keep that policy active. Because of that, it’s no longer valid, and she passed away without life insurance.
 
The VA does help, but their contribution is very limited. They cover about one-third of funeral costs—and only after the death certificate is issued, which could take several months or more. If she were buried in the National Cemetery, they would cover the digging of the grave, the lining, and the headstone—but nothing else.
 
Thankfully, we do have a family plot already paid for, and we want her to rest there surrounded by family. My husband and I will personally cover the cost of her headstone later this year, so I am not asking for help with that.
 
What we need help with now are the immediate costs to lay her to rest with dignity and without delay. Every donation, no matter the size, brings us closer to giving her the farewell she deserves.
 
How the Funds Will Be Used: 
 
Every dollar raised will go directly towards Cindy’s funeral and burial expenses. If, by some miracle, we raise more than we need, any additional funds will be placed in a trust for her two boys, ages 14 and 15, to help support them as they navigate life without their mother. 
 
A Message From the Heart: 
 
Cindy was so much more than just a sister, daughter, or friend. She was a bright light in all our lives, he was the kind of person who knew if you needed her without asking she would show up but not before stopping to getting some things first she would always grab your favorite items whether it was food a drink a book something to give you comfort and she would show up without being asked her Arms Wide Open in her voice soft and calm offering you the shoulder that you need to cry on the advice that you didn't know you needed the strength that you thought was gone she was so selfless never thought of herself put everyone else before her own needs. We know times are tough for everyone, and asking for help isn’t easy, but we would be forever grateful for any support you can offer. 
 
Closing: 
 
Thank you so much for taking the time to read Cindy’s story and for any support you can provide. Your kindness and generosity mean the world to us, and we are deeply grateful for your help in giving Cindy the beautiful farewell she deserves. 
 
We are still waiting for the Boston ME to release her body, which could be another week or so. Until then, we are left to turn to you. I hope that I am able to honor her properly and make her proud. Thank you for everything. We were notified last Friday, which was August 2nd, I think, of 2025. She waited for someone to find her; that alone is painful enough. Please, I do not want my sister to have to wait anymore to be put to rest. Thank you again. I will keep everyone posted. Bless you all!!!

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Help Lay a Soldier to Rest Cynthia Hawkes Brabant

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Platform is iOS

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Help Lay a Soldier to Rest Cynthia Hawkes Brabant

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