I have known Aaron for over fifteen years through our church community. Though we live in different places and attend different churches, our friendship has been built through countless conversations, messages, and a shared faith in Jesus. I never imagined I would be writing this on his behalf.

On November 16, Aaron and his wife welcomed their baby far earlier than expected. She was only 29 weeks pregnant and required an emergency C-section. The surgery itself was successful, and there was real hope for a happy ending. But the following day, Aaron’s wife suffered a series of sudden medical emergencies while still in the hospital. Despite the efforts of doctors and nurses, she could not be revived. She passed away unexpectedly, leaving behind Aaron, six children, including the premature newborn who remains in the hospital.

The shock and grief are impossible to put into words: Aaron lost his wife at just 32 years old. They were only beginning their life together. While he takes comfort in knowing she is with Jesus, he is heartbroken that his children will never again feel their mother’s embrace, hear her voice, or grow up with her presence in their home.

In the immediate aftermath, Aaron’s church family and local community responded with incredible generosity. Funeral expenses were covered. Rent and car payments were helped with. Burial plots were donated. It has been a beautiful picture of love in action. But as the initial wave of support naturally slows, the long road ahead is becoming clear.

Aaron is now preparing to relocate to Gainesville, Florida to be closer to his in-laws for support. He is navigating life as a single father, caring for six children, coordinating the care of a premature baby still hospitalized, and grieving the loss of his wife all at the same time. His employer has been gracious and supportive, but the ongoing financial needs of his family are significant.

When I spoke with Aaron recently, he was openly grieving, yet still clinging to his faith and his responsibility as a father. God is giving him strength, but strength does not erase practical needs. My hope with this fundraiser is simple: to ease the financial pressure so Aaron can focus on healing, being present for his children, and taking the next steps forward without being overwhelmed by constant financial stress.

No one would choose to walk through a tragedy like this. But moments like these give us, the body of Christ and the wider community, an opportunity to show real love in real ways. If you are able, please consider giving. If you cannot give, sharing this campaign is also a powerful way to help.

Thank you for standing with Aaron and his children during the hardest season of their lives.