Early this evening, we lost an amazing person, my beautiful mother Donna Brooks. Donna always put the wants of others before her needs. She always wanted to help out even when she didn't have the means. As you know, there was the recent loss of her mother, and only a month before that, the love of her life, Clarence. All of this compound stress took its toll on her heart. Finally, on July 10, her heart started failing, filling her lungs with fluid.

Over the last 48 days, she has been fighting heart failure, infections, and kidney failure in the ICU. In the weeks past, we started to see improvements and thought this terror was beginning to end. Then, all progression stopped...

My grandmother always thought of others, even down to her last moments. "Take me home. I have to say bye to everyone", "tell everyone I love them." That's what she said to me as she stayed strong and thoughtful to the end. She was 80 years young. She spent her life being caring, selfless, and honest. She was humble, kind, and someone you could rely on to help with anything.

I'm creating this fundraiser with the heaviest heart. This unexpected passing has left us all heartbroken. Her funeral will be determined in the days to follow, and any funds raised will be going towards her service and the care of our family during this difficult and trying time.

Donna and Clarence are in paradise, where they'll live, walking the malls and bowling—sharing each other's company and love. I'm sure they're joking and laughing while Clarence cooks, and moms follows behind him, cleaning and straightening up.

Thank you for any amount you can contribute.