My father has been dealing with cancer and its related treatments for several years now. Recent radiation treatments on his spine have left his bone structure weakened and a few weeks ago he suffered fractures that separated his spine from his pelvis. Last week, dad was at the hospital waiting for back surgery to repair the fractures and mom was sitting at his bedside. Late that evening mom suffered a massive heart attack and passed away suddenly. The family is struggling to make sense of this sudden and tragic event while at the same time trying to assist dad with his ongoing recovery. Mom's sudden passing and the medical and end-of-life expenses incurred, coupled with dad's ongoing care have put a serious financial strain on all of us.

Mom was a fiercely devoted wife, mother, grandmother and great-grandmother. She spent the latter part of her working career as an elementary school teacher. Her and dad met shortly after he returned home from his service in the Army, and they had been together ever since. They were married for 53 years.

In lieu of flowers, the family is requesting donations to help offset some of the unexpected expenses related to mom's passing and to help support dad through his recovery.