December is supposed to be the happiest time of the year. A time for family and friends. Unfortunately our December took an unexpected turn and moving forward will be difficult. My name is Norma Munoz, now a single mother of 3. Two of my children attend middle school, and I have a son in high school.

With heavy hearts we are mourning the unexpected passing of my partner of 7 years. On Sunday December 15, the love of my life, Gustavo Garcia Ruiz (34) lost his life in a car accident in Colima, Mexico where he was visiting his parents. He was the main provider in our family and treated my children as his own.

Gustavo had a kind soul, a bubbly personality and was full of life. He was a responsible father and partner. A hard worker, and a good example to my children. It broke my heart that we were unable to travel to Mexico for his funeral. Having to attend his burial via FaceTime is not ideal, and felt cruel. It was the only option to be able to say our last goodbye. My children and I will forever miss him and will remember him always.

It isn’t easy to ask for help, but I don’t have many options. Any help big or small will be appreciated.