My mom, Jodie, has been bravely battling COPD for over a decade. Watching someone you love fight just to breathe every day is something no family is ever truly prepared for.

Last year, our family went through one of the most terrifying experiences of our lives. What started as a severe infection quickly turned into sepsis, and my mom had to undergo emergency surgery to remove her colon. She now lives with an ostomy bag. Those two months were filled with fear, uncertainty, and the painful reality that we could lose her. No one can prepare you for what it feels like to almost lose your mom… or for my dad, his wife of 32 years.

Through all of this, my dad has never stopped showing up for her. He works over 60 hours a week trying to keep everything afloat while also being by her side as much as possible. He carries the weight of being a caregiver, a husband, and the one holding our family together.

Now, my mom is back in the hospital again because she’s struggling to breathe. Doctors have diagnosed her with congestive heart failure, likely caused by the strain that COPD flare-ups and pneumonia have put on her heart. She’s now down to just 70 pounds and is constantly fighting just to survive.

Watching someone you love go through this is heartbreaking. But if there’s one thing we know about my mom, it’s that she’s a fighter.

Right now, what my dad needs most is time — time to be with the woman he’s loved for more than three decades without the constant pressure of work and bills. The goal of this fundraiser is simply to help ease some of that burden. Donations will help with bills, food, gas, and allow my dad to take time off work so he can focus on being with my mom during this incredibly difficult time.

If you are able to donate, share this fundraiser, or even just keep our family in your prayers, it would mean more to us than we can ever express. Every bit of support helps, and we are endlessly grateful for the kindness and compassion of those around us.

Thank you for taking the time to read our story and for keeping my mom, Jodie, and our family in your thoughts. ❤️