Support Piera's Journey to Her Dad

Hello, some of you may know me, but for those who don't, my name is Piera, and my father is everything to me. Not only do we share a name, but we also share a personality. He has always been my rock, my security, my reassurance, and so much more. Unfortunately, in the past few years, his health has declined significantly due to an Alzheimer's diagnosis.

Since I was 14, I have lived in a different state from him, but he has never failed to make me feel loved and supported, even when I felt alone. Now, he is struggling. The man I once knew is starting to fade, and all I want is to be there for him.

I am a mother of four, working two jobs and living paycheck to paycheck. I have been trying to figure out a way to visit him. He is so brave and strong, and hearing him say, "When are you coming?" makes me realize I need to make this happen. He has never been one to admit when something is wrong, but now the urgency is real.

A little background on my father - he is a proud Italian man who was born and raised in Italy. At the age of 9, he was sent to an orphanage with his siblings after losing both parents at a young age. He traveled the world on a ship until he landed in America. English was not his first language, but he worked hard to learn it so he could have the same opportunities as a native citizen. His dream came true when he finally received his green card. Years later, I came along and changed his world. He has done everything for me and continues to do so to this day.

I am making an effort to visit him while he is still able to recognize me. He may not be bedridden, but I want to see him before he forgets too much. I want to help my stepmom care for him and ensure he has the best quality of life for however long he has left.