My mom was funny, loving, and the heart of our family. She was an incredible mother to me and my brother, and an amazing wife to my dad — the kind of love people hope to experience once in a lifetime.

February was supposed to mark my parents’ 50th wedding anniversary. Instead, my mom passed away with stage 4 cancer which was a total surprise as we were told by one of her oncologists that she was fine the day before we took her to the hospital. She passed away on the last day of 2025, leaving us heartbroken and facing a new year without her. New Year’s Eve will now forever carry this loss for our family.

My dad is grieving deeply. After nearly fifty years of marriage, he’s now learning how to live without his partner, best friend, and constant companion. Watching his pain has been unbearable, and we’re doing everything we can to support him through this unimaginable time.

We are asking for help to cover funeral and memorial expenses, medical bills, and the immediate costs that come with losing a loved one. The emotional loss is immeasurable, and the financial burden has been overwhelming during our time of grief.

If you’re able to donate, please know that any amount truly helps and goes directly toward easing this burden so we can focus on healing and caring for my dad. If you’re unable to give, sharing this page or keeping our family in your thoughts means more than you know.

Thank you for taking a moment to remember my mom — for the laughter she brought, the love she gave, and the legacy she leaves behind.

With heartfelt gratitude,

Marianna