Help Shawntae and family with funeral expenses

**I shouldn't be here. I shouldn't be searching this crumbling heart of mine for the proper words.... praying that in my darkest hour, I can muster enough courage to let you go. How is a mother supposed to live out the rest of her days when her child won't see another? I am at a loss.... wholly and utterly broken.**

These are some of the many thoughts racing through my mind as I prepare to say goodbye to my first born. The one who made me a mother and gave me more than just a title. Shawntae was someone you don't meet twice....a genuine pillar of strength and a heart so destined to beat for others it became the only song her feet would follow. She learned very early on, that giving of herself, especially to those in need, was her life's calling. When her GG Ma (who had suffered a stroke and was limited to using only one side of her body) came to live with us, Shawntae would play cards with her to help keep her spirits up. It was no surprise though, that I'd find her sitting on one hand to make it a fair game and undoubtedly put a smile on mom's face!

She was independent and headstrong, and in the same breath tender hearted and compassionate. Always ready to lend a hand and take baby birds under her wing. I know that they say it's our job as parents to teach our kids all about this journey.... but she has taught ME more than I ever learned in school or anywhere else, for that matter. The imprint she has left on my heart and on this world, is one that will not soon be forgotten. She took every bit of love and wisdom planted in her heart and turned it into an oasis that so many took cover in from the desert of life.

I'm asking anybody who reads this, to please take a minute and let these words resonate in your heart. Whether you know my girl, have met her at some point, or just know me.... a prayer said for her own babies left behind, donation, or just pure love and good intention is something that I'm hoping can grow exponentially....and put even the tiniest of of dents in the financial hardship this loss has incurred.

If all you can do today is share this message and pray for our aching hearts, that is more than enough. But if you're able to help by donating even one dollar towards caring for her two young children and laying her body to rest, your generosity will be one that is thanked for many years to come.

Thank you for taking the time to read the most vulnerable part of myself in the form of these words.