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.