Capstone & Career: Please help me finish strong!

My Final Stretch to a Dream: Help Me Complete My Capstone Week at FINE Mortuary College

Hi everyone,

I’m reaching out today with a mix of excitement and nerves as I prepare for the final step in a journey that will shape so much of who I will become. It’s humbling to share this and to ask for help through a GoFundMe. Becoming a funeral director isn’t just a career goal—it’s something I feel deeply called to do. I want to be someone families can trust and lean on when they need compassion and support the most.

Tyson and I have always made choices that put our son first and ensured Henry has everything he needs to grow up safe and loved. While we’ve done our best to manage everything on our own, this Capstone Week is simply something we can’t cover out of pocket right now. Completing it means everything to me, to our family’s future, and to the dream I’ve been working toward these past two years.

I have put my whole heart into my education at FINE Mortuary College. After two full years of studying and preparing—while still managing to be a wife and mom—I’m finally approaching the finish line. This February, I’ll begin my Capstone Week in Boston, Massachusetts. This mandatory and intensive ten-day hands-on course is the last requirement before I can take my national licensing exams and officially begin my professional funeral directing career.

Finishing this isn’t just about me—it’s about creating a more secure future for my son, being a steady partner to my husband who’s stood by my side through everything, building strong roots in our community, and fulfilling a promise I made to myself years ago to give back in a meaningful way.

Like so many families, our life runs on a careful budget, and the costs for this last step—including travel to Boston, lodging for 10 days, and final exam fees—are more than we can manage alone. Financial aid unfortunately doesn’t cover any of it. That’s why I’m reaching out this way, for a little help to get across the finish line.

If you’re able to contribute in any way, big or small, it would truly make a difference in helping me complete this journey. Even just sharing this page means so much—you never know whose heart it might reach.

If you’d prefer to donate directly, I also have Venmo and Zelle available. I’d be happy to provide receipts or any proof you’d like so you can see exactly how your support is helping me get to the finish line.

Thank you for believing in me and for being part of this chapter of my life. I can’t wait to put everything I’ve learned into practice and start serving families with compassion and care.

With appreciation,

Ashlyn