In Memory of Julie Gilliam: Funeral Assistance

Hello all, my name is Madison Gilliam. On Monday October 7th in the early morning I held my mom’s hand as she passed away. This was very unexpected and my heart is shattered. I set up this gofundme in hopes to help cover the funeral and cremation costs.

She had been feeling sick for about a week and having chest pains and trouble breathing. On Thursday she went to the hospital where they did tests and found that she had stage 4 lung cancer. Her health declined very quickly and required an oxygen mask in order to breathe. The option for attempting to treat her condition had a low probability of working, as the state she was made it impossible to do a biopsy. The other option they presented her with was comfort care, where she would be made as comfortable as possible and then she could decide when she wanted to stop using oxygen and let go. She opted for the latter. She was in a lot of pain and suffering, even with the oxygen mask.

Her doctor called me Saturday morning to let me know that she was not doing well, and that she requested family and friends to come see her. We had a lot of loved ones there surrounding her, as she told us it was her time to go and that she was ready.

She held on for as long as she could, but I witnessed first hand how badly she was suffering. Monday morning around 5am she took the oxygen off and did not want it back on. Her oxygen levels declined very quickly. I was holding her hand as she took her last breath and passed on from this life. It was extremely difficult for me to see, but at the same time it gave me a sense of peace that she would no longer be suffering, and that she would be with her Mama.

My mama always said I am the best thing to ever happen to her. She was the most selfless person I know, with the biggest heart. My mom was a very thoughtful, beautiful and kind woman. She taught me how to be a strong independent woman, and I am so grateful for everything she’s done for me. I know she has an army of people who love and cherish her. I’ve already gotten so much support and many kind words following her passing.

Her visitation will be at Caldwell Parrish funeral home on Friday October 18th from 2pm to 4pm.

I will have a link available for people to upload photos to use for a slideshow we will play during that time.

I will also have an area set up for people to write their best memories with my mama to write down and put in a box for me to read later and cherish.

Thank you for all the love and support, and thank you in advance if you are able to help out with these costs - any amount is appreciated❤️