Support for a Loving Home: Caring for our Cousin’s Children

Support for a Loving Home: Caring for Our Cousin’s Children After Tragedy

A Family in Crisis: Help Us Support Alicia’s Children After Tragedy

On December 14th, tragedy struck in Mariposa, CA, when my beloved cousin, Alicia, a devoted mother of four and a kind-hearted soul, lost her life in a devastating car accident. Two of her daughters, 15-year-old Keira and 24-year-old Christina, were in the car with her at the time. Both sustained severe, life-altering injuries that have left them in need of constant medical care and support.

Alicia was a beacon of love and strength for her children. Her absence has left an indescribable void, but her family is determined to honor her legacy by ensuring her children receive the care and support they need.

Keira’s Journey: Courage Through Pain

Keira, just 15 years old, faces an uphill battle after the accident. She has endured:

• Removal of a portion of her bowel and injury to her spleen.

• Broken ribs and severe bruising across her chest and abdomen.

• Aphasia, which affects her ability to communicate clearly and swallow pills.

• Limited mobility, requiring assistance with basic tasks such as bathing, dressing, sitting, and standing.

Her physical and emotional recovery will require constant attention, therapy, and specialized care.

Christina’s Struggle: Fighting Through Unimaginable Challenges

Christina, 24, sustained devastating injuries, including:

• Multiple fractures around her right eye, a fractured mandible, and broken ribs.

• A lacerated spleen and multiple breaks in her legs, including a crushed left knee.

• A rod in her collarbone, torn ACL, and ongoing complications requiring a hinged knee brace.

• Loss of hearing in her right ear and severe head trauma.

Christina is still unable to bear weight on either leg and requires assistance with all aspects of daily living. Despite her strength and determination, her road to recovery will be long and arduous.

Jeremiah: A Child in Need of Stability

Alicia’s 11-year-old son, Jeremiah, was not in the car but faces his own challenges. His father, who has a history of addiction, incarceration, and abusive behavior, is not capable of providing a safe and stable environment. As a family, we are committed to stepping in to ensure Jeremiah has the nurturing and secure upbringing he deserves.

How You Can Help

The sudden loss of Alicia has left us grappling with unimaginable grief, but also the urgent responsibility of caring for her children. Cheryl, another family member, has taken in Keira and Christina, but the financial and emotional burden is immense. Medical bills are piling up, and both girls require round-the-clock care.

In addition, I am working with a legal team regarding Jeremiah in order to ensure his safety and well-being. This requires navigating complex legal systems in both California and Tennessee, which will necessitate hiring attorneys in both states. I will also need to take time away from work when that time comes but for right now the financial focus is on Cheryl and the girls and helping her with what she needs in real time.

We are asking for your support to:

• Relieve the financial strain on Cheryl, allowing her to focus on nursing Keira and Christina back to health without risking her home or financial stability.

• Cover ongoing medical expenses, therapy, and care for both girls.

• Help with legal fees to secure and ensure a safe, loving home for Jeremiah.

Your Impact

Every donation, no matter the size, will make a tangible difference in the lives of Alicia’s children. Your generosity will not only help ease the financial burden but also provide a path to healing and stability for a family shattered by loss.

Together, we can honor Alicia’s memory by surrounding her children with the love and support she worked so hard to provide. Thank you for helping us through this heartbreaking time.

Please donate today and share this story to help us rebuild a future for Keira, Christina, and Jeremiah.