Hello – my name is Julia Dedeaux and I’m writing to ask for your kindness and support for a grieving mother in my community.

Makayla Washington, a devoted single mom, recently endured an unimaginable tragedy — the loss of her beloved daughter, N'Riaa, who was only 15 months old. Just a few months ago, Makayla moved to Fredericksburg, Virginia, hoping for a fresh start with her three children. But life took a devastating turn.

In October of 2024, Makayla noticed that N'Riaa wasn’t feeling like herself. After countless doctor visits and tests, she was diagnosed with an inoperable brain tumor in December 2024. Despite the heartbreaking prognosis, Makayla stayed strong for her children, and she spent every possible moment with her daughter, doing everything she could to keep her surrounded by love. Sadly, on July 11th 2025, N'Riaa passed away.

Now, Makayla is trying to pick up the pieces while caring for her two surviving children — A'Leea aged 5, and Kyree aged 3 — all while grieving the most profound loss a mother can experience. She needs help, support, prayers, and time to get through this tragedy. I am writing today to ask for financial help with daily expenses for the family so Makayla can breathe just a little bit easier.

Before her daughter’s passing, Makayla had already exhausted her paid time off to attend medical appointments. She isn’t eligible for FMLA because she hasn’t been with her employer long enough. The immediate expenses they are facing are rent due in two weeks, utilities to keep the lights on, and her car payment. Makayla and her family have decided to forgo a formal funeral and instead have a small Celebration of Life with family — a decision made not from lack of love, but from necessity. I’ve attached screenshots above, but to add further insult to injury, Makayla's car was repossessed today. Even after explaining the situation, they couldn’t do anything to stop the repossession. Michaela needs $1131.69 to get her car back, and each day is an extra $75 charge to get her car back.

Makayla is one of the most resilient, resourceful people I know. She’s the kind of mom who can stretch $10 in a hundred different ways. But no one can get through something like this alone. This isn’t just a rainy day — it’s a storm, and she needs shelter.

Please consider donating anything you can to help Makayla and her children survive this heartbreaking time. Your support will help cover rent, utilities, transportation, and a little breathing room to grieve.

Every donation — no matter how small — will make a real difference.

Thank you for reading, for caring, and for helping us hold this family up when they need it most.

With gratitude,

Julia Dedeaux

On behalf of Makayla Washington and her family