Remembering Our Sister and Supporting Her Son

Hello, my name is Mariana. It is with a heavy heart that I have to write this. My little sister, Andrea, was taken from us recently at only 20 years old. She still had the rest of her life ahead of her. She wasn’t ready to leave this world, but here we are, trying to make sense of the unimaginable.

My sister was a beautiful soul. She was creative, unapologetic, and an exceptional artist. There are no words to convey how much she loved her baby boy. She was such a good mother to her six-year-old, Josiah, always putting his happiness and well-being at the center of her world. Her husband was also in that world, being her best friend, and a constant source of support for both her and Josiah.

She was strong-willed and stubborn, never afraid to stand up for what she believed in or to go after what she wanted. She didn’t care what anyone thought of her and lived her life entirely on her own terms. She had a way of lighting up any room she walked into, making those around her feel loved and valued. I am so proud of the person she was.

For the past six years, she battled lupus and somehow was able to stay strong throughout her treatments. She had run out of the medication she needed and, after losing her insurance, couldn’t afford to see a doctor. Despite her effort to reapply for government insurance, time ran out. She was so excited to turn 21 and celebrate with Risa and me in two months. But now, instead of planning their birthday, we are faced with the heartbreaking task of saying goodbye.

We will be laying her to rest with our mother and her grandmother. I find some solace in believing they are together again somewhere. We are humbly asking for your help to cover the costs of her funeral and to give her the beautiful memorial she deserves. Any additional funds will go towards her son, Josiah, as we work to provide him with the support and care he needs.

From the bottom of my heart and on behalf of my family, I want to express my deepest gratitude for any support you can offer, whether through a donation or by sharing our story. Your kindness means more to us than words can express, and we are incredibly grateful for your support and help in honoring my sister’s memory and caring for her little boy. Thank you for being a part of this with us.