Suicide has taken an amazing person. I recently lost a loved one very unexpectedly as they lost the battle within them. The shock of their passing has turned my world upside down with emotions I never thought I would have to try and navigate. To say the word suicide now has a more personal effect and the mourning process runs even deeper. So many unanswered questions and "what if’s" that become overwhelming. Because of the extreme loss, I’ve had to take more time off work than expected, and being a single mom with so many financial obligations, the financial stress just keeps coming. On top of the emotional pain, I also lost personal belongings—some of which held deep meaning for me and my family. It’s been overwhelming trying to keep up with daily expenses while making sure my child still feels loved and cared for, especially during what should be a celebration time for her birthday.

Right now, I’m not only living paycheck to paycheck as a single mom, but also burying myself in a hole of debt on my credit card due to the time off I have needed to try and work through this overwhelming grief. While no amount of financial assistance will fill the void that is forever engraved in my heart, I’m hoping for donations to help with counseling, daycare costs, monthly payments and to replace what I’ve lost. Your support would help relieve some of the financial stress so I can focus on grieving and healing without the constant worry about money. I’m doing my best to provide for my child and family and keep us as stable as possible. The loss of my loved one, combined with losing important items, has left me feeling like I’m starting all over.

I am doing a brave thing that maybe my loved one couldn't do by asking for help. I am using my voice. Many people know I’m not one to ask for help. And I still don’t want to, but I’m faced with nothing left but to ask for the help. Losing someone you love so suddenly, without any warning, is incredibly hard. Continuing to suffer losses of items and things afterwards just compound the grief. I’m grateful for any and all support anyone is willing to give, even if it’s small. Anything is appreciated during this difficult time, and your kindness will make a real difference as I work to get back on my feet.