My dad, Kent Unger, recently suffered a stroke, and our world shifted in an instant.

Just last month, we lost my mom, Becky Unger, to brain cancer. We are still deep in grief. We are still learning how to exist in a world without her warmth, her strength, and her presence anchoring our family. And now, in the midst of mourning her, we are navigating another medical crisis.

One minute life felt fragile but steady, and the next we are sitting in ICU. It has been terrifying and heartbreaking to watch someone we love so deeply suddenly need so much intensive care, especially so soon after losing Mom.

Right now, our focus is on giving Dad every chance to regain strength and independence. Alongside the emotional weight comes the practical reality of what recovery requires.

This is hard for me to ask for help. I’m someone who prefers to carry things quietly and handle what I can on my own, just like my dad has always taught me.

If you feel led to support our family during this time, we would be forever deeply grateful. Every contribution will go directly toward anything Dad needs, mobility equipment, home modifications, accessibility needs and helping offset lost income while we care for him.

If you’re not in a position to give, prayers, shares, and encouragement mean just as much. We feel every bit of love surrounding us.

We are taking this one day at a time. We are grieving mom and fighting for dad, and holding onto hope wherever we can find it.

We are encouraging him to fight to get his strength back, to get him home, to be able to hug his Grandkids and to be with his dog, Sam. They miss him so much.

With gratitude,

Heather

If preferred donations can be made to Venmo and cash app

Venmo @heathergracesmith

Cash app $heathergraceunger