My father was diagnosed with cancer earlier this year and was a very humble man. He never wanted to ask for money and wanted to try and take care of everything himself. During his almost year-long battle with cancer, he amassed credit card debt and hospital bills since he could no longer work. All along telling us not to worry, to allow me to focus on finishing high school and getting into college.

He was such a hard-working man and was always the first person to lend a helping hand to those around him. I have seen my father work so hard his whole life to provide for my mom and me, and never once has he complained. He shows not only my mom and me endless love, but also his whole family. He was known as the fun-loving big-kid uncle, watching cartoons, Power Rangers, and playing video games.

He fought every day, suffered through chemo and did all he could to extend his time with us. He thankfully got to see me walk the stage for graduation.

I had to watch as he got weaker and weaker, no longer able to drive, walk up stairs, or even get in the shower by himself. And the whole time, all he could worry about was how we would be taken care of when he was no longer here. The stress on top of the cancer slowly ate away at him, and sometimes wanting to reject treatments or go to the hospital to avoid additional costs.

Sadly, on September 6th at 5:15 a.m., he took his last breaths after transitioning to comfort care at midnight.

Our extended family has come together to try and support us with as much as they can. But with no income coming in as we deal with all paperwork, bills, and now burial expenses, we find ourselves drowning in expenses while dealing with the loss of my father.

So we are asking for any help, big or small. Whether that's a donation, a prayer, or even just sharing this around. Anything you can donate will help us tremendously.

I want to thank you all from the bottom of my heart for your help as we deal with this loss and grieve. I am forever grateful.