A year and a half ago, I made the decision to help my friend James Quinlan, a single father of two beautiful young girls, Calleigh and Mckenna. With James working as an over-the-road truck driver and having little family support, the girls came to live with me and my children. We quickly became a blended family, sharing our lives, our home, and our hearts. My son and Calleigh attended school together, and Mckenna found friendship with my neighbor’s daughter.

Earlier this year, tragedy struck when the girls lost their mother in March. Despite the heartbreak, James and I worked together to give all our kids the best life we could. James continued to work hard, visiting whenever possible, and we supported each other through our own challenges. Just as I was preparing to move with my son, James returned to bring his daughters to Florida for a new beginning. But in a devastating turn, I received a frantic call from Calleigh—her dad was having a medical emergency at a rest stop. James was rushed to a hospital in New Jersey, and soon after, I received the heartbreaking news that he had passed away. In less than a year, these two incredible girls lost both their mom and dad at just 16 and 13 years old.

My heart is shattered for Calleigh and Mckenna. They are now without their parents, and I am doing everything I can to support them as they face this unimaginable loss. Anything raised will help the girls get what they need—clothing, personal items, school supplies, and hopefully a Christmas to bring them some comfort. I am praying we can all come together to help them. These two girls are a part of my family forever, and my heart is breaking for them. James wasn’t just their dad; he truly was their best friend. Please keep them in your prayers, and if you can, consider donating or sharing this fundraiser to help give Calleigh and Mckenna hope for the future.