In July, my dad called to tell me he had lumps on his chest. His doctor told him not to worry, but something in me knew better, and I urged him to get a second opinion. That second opinion changed everything. The biopsy revealed lung cancer, and by then it had already spread quickly to his liver, skin, and brain. In just a short time, I watched my strong, loving dad decline before my eyes—losing weight, growing weaker, and living in constant pain.
Three days ago, he fell and was rushed to the hospital. The fall broke all of his ribs and his C4 vertebrae, and scans showed cancer lesions covering his body. The doctors have told us he likely won’t live past today.
My dad was so much more than his illness. He was a mechanic his whole life, always happiest when he was under the hood of a car. He loved engines, but he loved people even more—always caring, giving, and willing to help anyone who needed it. He had a goofy sense of humor, a strong spirit, and a heart that never failed to show up. He never missed a single birthday or holiday for the people he loved, always making sure those around him felt special.
My dad is the most important man in my life, and the thought of saying goodbye breaks me in ways I can’t describe. He lives in Massachusetts, while I live in Colorado, which means I will also need to travel to handle his belongings and clean out his apartment on top of covering cremation and final expenses. As my family and I face this painful reality, I am creating this fundraiser to help give my dad the dignity of being laid to rest and to ease some of the burden on my mom, my sisters, and myself. Any donation, no matter the size, will mean the world to us. And if you cannot give, we ask for your thoughts, prayers, and love during this time.
