It’s never easy to ask for help, but right now, our family is facing something we can’t navigate alone. As many of you know, illnesses—especially ones as serious as this—come with not only emotional weight, but financial burdens as well.

Our incredible mom was recently diagnosed with three brain tumors, and is preparing to undergo not one, but two brain surgeries. Her first surgery is scheduled for May 9 to remove a tumor pressing on her brain stem. Recovery will be long—starting with 4–6 weeks from the first operation and stretching over the course of several months.

While we are so thankful that Mom has good medical and disability benefits through her job, living on a reduction in salary is a challenge, especially with high deductibles and Alaric, her husband needing to take unpaid time off to care for her.

If you know our mom, you know she is the strongest, most selfless woman. She raised four of us as a single mom while going to school full time to earn her accounting degree—always putting our needs ahead of her own. She goes into Mama Bear mode to protect us, and I wish we could do the same for her. She is our world and the heart that beats within us. Words can't describe how devastating it has been to find out our best friend has a big fight up ahead. She’s been our rock, our protector, our everything. Now, it’s our turn to be that for her.

My oldest brother and I along with our families have postponed our move from Austin so we can be here with her through this time and help with her recovery. Her youngest children are still in high school and doing their best to stay strong through all of this.

Any support—whether it’s a donation, a meal, or simply keeping us in your thoughts—means more than we can say. Your kindness will help lift some of the burden so we can focus on what matters most: helping Mom heal.

From the bottom of our hearts, thank you.

Love, Alyssa