I never imagined I would be writing something like this.

My cousin Nicole and her husband, Gene, have experienced the unimaginable — the sudden and tragic loss of their only son, Caleb, in a car accident. Caleb was just 20 years old.

There really aren't words for a loss like this or for the heartbreak Nicole and Gene are going through right now. As their family, all we want to do is wrap our arms around them and somehow make even the smallest part of this unbearable time a little easier.

Caleb was such a kind and caring young man with a big heart. He loved music, video games, spending time with his friends, and his dog Arizona, who meant the world to him. Music was a big part of his life, and he had recently started playing in a band with his friends — something that brought together two things he loved so much: music and the people closest to him.

Caleb was also the kind of person who cared about others and was always willing to lend a hand or help someone who needed it. He was simply an all-around great person — a wonderful son, a loyal friend, and someone who touched the lives of so many people around him.

At only 20 years old, Caleb had so much more life ahead of him. He was making memories, enjoying his music and his friends, and just beginning his adult life. To have that taken away so suddenly is something no family should ever have to experience.

I'm starting this GoFundMe for Nicole and Gene because right now, the last thing they should have to worry about is money. The funds raised will help with funeral and related expenses, time away from work, and other expenses that may arise in the weeks and months ahead. Most importantly, I hope it will give them some breathing room and allow them the time they need to grieve their son without the added pressure of financial worries.

If you are able to donate, any amount, no matter how small, would mean so much to our family. If you aren't in a position to donate, please consider sharing Caleb's story. A share, a prayer, a kind word, or simply keeping Nicole, Gene, their family, and Caleb's many friends in your thoughts means more than you know.

I wish there were words that could make any of this easier. There aren't. But I hope we can come together and surround Nicole and Gene with love and show them that they don't have to walk through this heartbreak alone.

Caleb, you were loved more than you could ever know. Twenty years was nowhere near enough.

You will be remembered. You will be talked about. Your music, your kindness, your laughter and the memories you gave everyone who loved you will live on.

Rest easy, Caleb. ❤️