My name is Ashlee, and I’m reaching out during an incredibly urgent and challenging time for my family. My mom, Ann, was truly my best friend and the person I trusted most in the world. She raised me as her own from the time I was a baby, and our bond was unbreakable. Ann was the heart of our family—she loved the Florida Gators, filled our home with laughter and chocolate cake, and always made sure everyone had a place to go for the holidays. Her passing was sudden and unexpected, the result of a complication during a routine biopsy. We are now facing a malpractice case, but the legal process is long and expensive, and there was no time to plan for the future we’re now facing without her.

Since Ann’s passing, I have become the main support for my younger brother, Isaac, who is on the Autism Spectrum. Isaac is quirky, kind, and incredibly bright—he loves researching mountain ranges, exploring nature, and sharing his latest discoveries. He means the world to me, and I’ve always known that one day I would become his guardian. That day has come much sooner than any of us expected. I am now responsible for securing legal guardianship for Isaac, handling all of Ann’s affairs, and making sure we have a safe place to live and reliable transportation. Unfortunately, Ann’s savings were depleted and her credit maxed out due to a dishonest person who took advantage of her kindness, leaving us with very little to cover funeral expenses, legal fees, car repairs, and basic living costs. The house has a reverse mortgage, so there is little to no value left after the sale, and there aren’t many assets to help with these expenses.

I am doing everything I can—looking for temporary work while I’m in Florida handling court cases and paperwork—but the costs are overwhelming. The most urgent needs are legal fees for guardianship and Ann’s affairs, as well as repairing her car so I can get Isaac to appointments and take care of daily necessities. Any support will help us keep moving forward, honor Ann’s memory, and give Isaac the stability he deserves. Thank you for reading our story and for considering a donation to help us through this difficult time.