Recently, my world was turned upside down when my mom—a single mom who spent her life doing everything she could to raise us—passed away. She faced every challenge head-on and always put her kids first. Losing her has been devastating, and my siblings and I are now trying to navigate through life without her.


I am 24 and currently serving in the U.S. Coast Guard, and I rushed home from Florida to be there for my mother’s final moments and to care for my four younger siblings: Trent (21), Armani (19), and 16-year-old twins Logan and Adalyn. Without our fathers’ presence in our lives and with no financial support left behind, my wife Bruna and I are now responsible for supporting my family’s immediate needs, securing legal guardianship for my minor siblings, and covering many other unforeseeable expenses.


My siblings and I are leaning on each other as we navigate our grief and this sudden, overwhelming transition. We are doing everything we can, but the needs are significant and urgent. We usually try to handle things on our own, but in this moment, I need to ask for a helping hand. Funds raised will go toward legal fees, funeral and medical expenses, essential living costs, and airfare for required court travel between Florida and California. Any contribution—no matter the size—makes a huge difference. If you cannot donate, sharing this fundraiser is just as valuable. From the bottom of my heart, thank you for supporting my family during this incredibly difficult time.