In April 2021 my son passed away suddenly. We were able to have him cremated and have a small service for him at the time. However, I was unaware of the financial challenges that our family would continue to face throughout the year.
My son has 3 children at the time of his death under the age of 2. One child was born 2 months after his death. To have him listed on the birth certificate we have to retain a family law attorney to establish paternity per our county clerk of courts.
Additionally, at the time I was not able to think clearly and did not secure a plot for my son’s child to visit. Since then I have decided to have some of his ashes buried so his children can visit him.
Our family at the time did have a go-fund-me for funeral expenses but once it met our minimum goal we ended the fund. In hindsight this was a terrible idea. I personally do not like to take from others, however I should have continued to accept donations as we have on going expenses.
Our stressful year has not limited to inconsistent employment for myself, his sisters and mothers of his children (as well).
I am hoping to raise the following
$1600 plot and cremates burial
$2,500 headstone
$5000 Attourney retainer to establish paternity.
anything above and beyond would be used to pay off the $10k debt acquired since April and/or deposited into a trust for his children.
We are working hard as a family to keep pushing forward but we are having barrier after barrier bring us down.
The children are entitled to some social security survivor benefits, however at this time we are unaware of the amount.
This has truly been a humbling experience.
My son was a loving father, my family intends to provide as he would however, this year has been overwhelming to say the least.
Blessings,
J
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