While my mother was lying in a hospital bed fighting for her life, someone entered her home and took everything of value---including a safe so heavy it took at least two men to move.

This is the story of what happened next---.and why I refuse to let her be forgotten.

In October 2021, my stepfather and my mother passed away just one week apart due to COVID. What should have been a time to grieve and honor my mother instead became the beginning of a long and painful ongoing legal battle.

My mother, Geraldine, affectionately called Geri, was 79 years old. I am her first born son, Ted, now 65. This is not just a case to me---this is my mother, and I am trying to honor her life and her wished the best I can.

The night my stepfather died, individuals entered my parents' home without authorization and removed a safe containing items and valuables that belonged to my mother. This event has been acknowledged in court, yet to this day, many questions remain unanswered about what was taken and where those things went.

At the same time my mother was still alive---hospitalized, vulnerable, and fighting for her life. In her final days she became incapacitated, but there were moments where she showed awareness, emotion, and connection. No one should have to endure that kind of distress during such a critical time.

My mother was the kind of person people often describe as "everyone's grandma." She always had treats ready for the neighborhood children, and they adored her. She had a generous heart and cared deeply about others---especially children and families facing hardship.

She told me she had a will and an education trust meant to support children and provide help to families facing serious illness. That purpose meant everything to her. Making sure her wishes are honored means everything to me.

I want to be clear: This is not about what I can get. This is about accountability, truth, and ensuring what my Grandmother and mother worked for is used the way she intended---to help others.

For over 4 years, I have pursued this through the court system. I paid for legal representation for more than two years until my resources were exhausted. I have been representing myself, doing everything I can to continue the fight---but I have reached a point where I need experienced legal help again to move forward properly.

Funds raised will be used for:

Retaining an attorney to continue this case

Obtaining financial and legal records

Challenging the closing of the estate until everything is fully accounted for

Ensuring my mother's wishes are honored as intended

This is about more than finances. My mother was denied a peaceful and dignified death. This is about dignity, justice, and making sure my mother is not forgotten. This is all she ever wanted for herself.

If I am unable to continue this fight due to lack of funds, donations will be given to St. Jude's Children's Research Hospital, my mother's favorite charity. If funds exceed what is needed, remaining amounts will also be donated there.

All funds will be help by the retained attorney as a legal retainer for this case.

I believe in doing what is right, even when it is difficult. I believe my mother deserves that.

If you are able to help---whether by giving, sharing or praying--- your support means more than I can put into words

Thank you for standing with me

---Ted