Hello everyone,

Life has been challenging for all of us these past few years. I’ve faced obstacles that tested my strength and resilience, but I seem to have found a way through them each time.

On November 8, my world was shaken in a way I could never have prepared for—I lost my mom, my best friend, and my biggest supporter.

I’m reaching out to ask for your support. We are hoping to raise $8,900.00 to help with funeral costs, allowing us to honor her memory in a way that reflects the love and kindness she showed everyone. She leaves behind three daughters and a partner of 15 years who loved her dearly.

If there’s any part of me that you love, it’s because of her. She was the kind of mother everyone dreams of: strong, resilient, funny, and endlessly compassionate. She embraced everyone who crossed her path with kindness, treating each person with the utmost respect, whether they were in her life for a moment or a lifetime.

In 1996, my mom was diagnosed with a brain tumor that had grown so large it was pressing on her brain. After a complex 36-hour surgery, she endured multiple strokes, which left her with cognitive, speech, and mobility disabilities, as well as partial paralysis. Doctors gave her only 6 years to live, but she defied all odds and lived another 28 years. Despite every challenge, she filled those years with joy, love, and an indomitable spirit. She was a survivor, and no setback could ever keep her from being the most incredible mom to her children.

She gave of herself endlessly, even on a limited income, often sharing what little she had with others in need. She kept a deeply held promise she made to her own mother—to always take care of her. Even with her own disabilities, she cared for my grandmother with unwavering dedication. My mom was there for her through every difficult moment as my grandmother’s mind and memory faded from dementia and Alzheimer’s over the past ten years. She showed my grandmother constant love and patience, no matter how much her own body and spirit were tested. Despite the pain, she found strength in giving, honoring their bond, and staying true to the promise she made. It was just one of the many ways she showed what true love and sacrifice looked like.

As a member of the LGBTQIA+ community, I know how rare and precious it is to have a supportive parent. My mom was my safe place, my unwavering support. When I finally gathered the courage to tell her I wanted to transition, she simply smiled and said, “What were you waiting for? I’ve always known you were my daughter. Whatever makes you happy.” She made me feel like I could truly be myself, and she always encouraged me to live life authentically.

During a pivotal time in my life, she spent three weeks with me as I took the steps to align my outer self with my inner self. Her presence, her warmth, and her encouragement during that time—just lying next to me, holding my hand, telling me that I was beautiful and the world was ready to see me—are memories I will cherish forever. Her acceptance and love transcended any difference, any challenge, any belief.

Thank you from the bottom of my heart for any help you can provide.