On June 13, 2025 our world changed forever. My beloved mother, Mariluz, and stepfather, Miguel, were passengers in an Uber in Miami, Florida, when they were involved in a devastating three-car crash. Both were gravely injured and rushed to HCA Florida Kendall Hospital. Despite working on my mom for over an hour, she was tragically pronounced dead at the hospital. Miguel, though initially alive, was in critical condition.

My younger sister in Miami received the heartbreaking call first. She contacted my older brother Carlos, who then reached out to me in Atlanta. In total shock and heartbreak, I packed up along with my son and granddaughter and drove 10 hours to Miami the very next day. We arrived at 7 p.m. and went straight to the hospital. Sadly, just three days later, on June 16, Miguel passed away after being placed on hospice care.

We were suddenly faced with funeral planning while still processing the trauma. We’re deeply grateful to Dignity Memorial – Forest Lawn Funeral Home and Memorial Gardens in Davie, Florida, for their kindness and support during this time. The funeral was held on June 24. My brother Carlos, doing everything he could to honor our Mother Mariluz and Miguel, had to charge nearly $60,000 across four credit cards to cover the funeral, burial, and all the expenses leading up to it.

We’re especially thankful to The Morgan Law Group and HelpVy for guiding us when we didn’t know where to turn.

To make things even harder, my oldest son Steven was hit by a drunk driver 18 months ago. He’s still unable to work and lives with me, along with my granddaughter. The weight of these back-to-back tragedies has been overwhelming.

My mom and Miguel came from Colombia in 1984, a few years after my younger sister was born prematurely and left blind. Though she is now married and living independently, our parents—well into their 80s—remained deeply involved in helping her navigate daily life. Their sudden loss has left a devastating hole in her world, and in all of ours.

Now, we just want to honor their legacy with the farewell they truly deserve. Please help us carry this final burden.

~ With gratitude Ingrid and Family