HELP ME TRAVEL - DROWNING IN GRIEF. I am seeking aid to facilitate my return to my birthplace, Zimbabwe. It has been five years since I departed, and during this time, I have encountered numerous heart-wrenching losses that have left me feeling overwhelmed and yearning for the warmth of my loved ones. Regrettably, my cherished brother, with whom I shared an exceptionally close bond, passed away on January 10, 2021, due to complications from COVID-19. I was present on the phone with him as he drew his last breath, and that moment has left an enduring imprint on my heart. Planned Visits 1. Paying a Visit to My Brother's Gravesite Above all else, I yearn to visit the resting place of my brother and commence the process of accepting his departure, as I am truly struggling. Losing him has been one of the most challenging ordeals I have faced, and I believe it is my responsibility to pay tribute to his memory by visiting his grave. My brother was a genuinely joyous individual who derived immense pleasure from helping others. He forged friendships with people of all ages and infused life into every space he entered. 2. Commemorating My Two Childhood Best Friends at Their Graves Merely six days after my brother's demise, I experienced the loss of my childhood best friend on January 16, 2021, also due to COVID-19 complications. We shared an unbreakable bond for over 35 years and journeyed through every stage of life together until her passing. Her death dealt yet another devastating blow. I had relied on her for support during my brother's passing. I wish to visit her gravesite and connect with her two children to fulfill the vow we made to each other: to watch over each other's kids. 3. Paying Respects at the Gravesite of My Second (Last) Best Friend In February 2022, my remaining childhood best friend, who was an integral part of our trio, passed away as well. We provided each other with solace throughout the loss of my brother and our friend. (Over the years, my brother had become akin to their brother too). She underwent surgery and experienced a substantial loss of blood. Due to the dire state of our hospitals in Zimbabwe, they were unable to procure enough blood for transfusion. This loss hit me particularly hard as, for the first time in my life, I felt vulnerable, alone, and utterly terrified. My two guardians were gone. They are no longer with us. We had always supported one another. I never could have fathomed a life without these three individuals. I assumed we would grow old together. Visiting her gravesite will serve as a final farewell and an expression of gratitude for our friendship. We were called the Golden Girls. Sadness During the Holiday Season Typically, the holiday season is filled with happiness and festivities. However, it brings a great deal of sorrow for me. I have experienced the loss of my brother, my two closest friends, and my mother in a terrible car accident on January 4. These sudden and tragic deaths have left me feeling lost and alone, making it difficult to enjoy the celebrations like I used to. Seeking Comfort and Closure What I truly need is the support of my loved ones and the chance to grieve and heal. It is my wish to travel back home to Zimbabwe, where I can be surrounded by people who understand what I'm going through and can offer the solace and support I desperately need during this challenging time. Visiting Gravesites As part of my journey, I plan to visit the gravesites of my loved ones, my siblings, my brother's children, and my best friends' children. I also plan to visit my rural home where my dad is buried and bring him flowers. I believe that these visits will help me find closure and come to terms with the profound losses I have experienced. A Dream to Fulfill for My Brother Lastly, I had a dream of taking my late brother to a Chief's Football Game in Kansas City, where we could enjoy the excitement of the Arrowhead noise together. This thought used to fill me with joy and anticipation, but now it brings tears to my eyes. Sadly, that dream will remain unfulfilled. However, I would like to place a token of affection on his grave as a way “fulfilling” this dream. Conclusion In conclusion, I humbly request your support in funding my trip back home to Zimbabwe. I am no longer able to bear the weight of these losses on my own, and it is crucial for me to find comfort in the embrace of those who love and care for me. I deeply appreciate any compassion and assistance you can provide as I embark on this journey to heal and reconnect with my loved ones. Thank you for your understanding and consideration. Additionally, I wanted to mention that I have "adopted" two orphan girls, and I have taken on the responsibility of covering their tuition fees and other school-related expenses. Moreover, I also support my family back home, and it is challenging to prioritize these family obligations while also needing to travel for the sake of my mental health. As a single parent, I am responsible for taking care of my two children. Being a mother and a survivor of domestic violence have shaped my experiences. However, dealing with grief presents a unique set of challenges.