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Cuban Mother Seeks Support After Daughter's Death in the U.S. and Father's Passing from Grief

Friday, May 9, 2025 by Sofia Valdez

Cuban Mother Seeks Support After Daughter's Death in the U.S. and Father's Passing from Grief
Sheila Almenares - Image of © GoFundMe

Overwhelmed by a heartbreaking double tragedy within her family, Cuban native Mercedes Almenares has reached out to the kindness of friends, family, and strangers alike to cover the funeral expenses for her only daughter and father, who passed away just days apart. Through a GoFundMe campaign, she is seeking financial assistance and prayers to bid farewell to her beloved relatives.

Tragic Losses Within Days

Sheila Almenares, a 24-year-old residing in Houston, succumbed to her injuries last Wednesday after fighting for her life following a car accident on May 2 in Waco, Texas. Just two days after the incident that claimed Sheila's life, Mercedes' father, who was also Sheila's grandfather, died. According to Mercedes, "he couldn't bear to see his granddaughter leave this world."

Fundraising Effort to Honor Loved Ones

The appeal, which has already received numerous contributions, aims to cover the funeral costs for both Sheila and her grandfather. In the campaign description, Mercedes expressed: "My beloved daughter Sheila, my only child, had her life taken away by an accident. Words cannot describe the pain of losing a child. Adding to this grief is the overwhelming loss of my father, who couldn't endure the sorrow of seeing his granddaughter go."

"We are going through immense pain and hardship. That is why, with humility and hope, I turn to you - friends, family, and all those with a kind heart - to ask for help with the funeral expenses for my daughter and father. Any contribution, no matter how small, will be of great assistance," she added.

The campaign's goal is to raise $10,000. At the time of this writing, $3,450 has been collected.

Expressions of Friendship and Grief

Sheila's passing has left a profound impact on those closest to her. Social media is flooded with messages of condolence. "I'm so sad; we had plans to meet but couldn't. Life can be exceedingly unfair," expressed Jenni Moreno Ramírez. "There are no words or phrases that can console," said Surmaily Vinent Venero, who shared having "many fond memories."

"Fly high, my beautiful cousin. I don't know if we will ever overcome this pain, but God will place you in the highest heavens," wrote Jayla Caridad Torres Montero.

Moving Forward and Continuing the Call for Help

The GoFundMe campaign remains active, with the family urging continued prayers and support. Sheila's unexpected departure "has been a heavy blow, especially for her mother, who not only loses her daughter but also her closest family," mentioned Isabel Andrea on Facebook.

"In these challenging times, we want to unite as a community to offer comfort and support," she added.

FAQs on Supporting the Almenares Family

How can I contribute to the Almenares family's GoFundMe campaign?

To contribute, you can search for the Almenares family's campaign on the GoFundMe website and make a donation directly on their page.

What is the fundraising goal for the campaign?

The campaign aims to raise $10,000 to cover funeral expenses for Sheila Almenares and her grandfather.

Why did Mercedes Almenares start this GoFundMe campaign?

Mercedes Almenares initiated the campaign to seek financial help and prayers for the funerals of her daughter and father, who passed away in close succession.

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