I am the proud daughter of a United States Army veteran who honorably served and retired after more than 20 years of service. My father recently passed away in my home, shortly after I moved him from El Paso, Texas to Kansas City, Kansas.

The move was necessary due to an ongoing domestic abuse situation involving his second wife of just over three years, who almost 20 years younger than him. She frequently left him alone for days at a time and subjected him to abuse. My father had an active Adult Protective Services case that he personally filed against her. To protect him and ensure he was properly cared for, I made the decision to remove him from that environment and bring him to live with me.

He was truly happy and relieved to be leaving that situation. We traveled the 960 miles together, a journey that became the most meaningful road trip of my life. Along the way, he made plans for the future—simple joys like going to karaoke, his favorite activity, and visiting places he said he was never allowed to go while under my stepmother’s care.

Tragically, my father passed away the very night I brought him into my home. I was heartbroken knowing that I was too late to share those plans and moments with him. I will forever carry the weight of wishing I had been able to protect and care for him sooner. I love you so much, Daddy.

During our journey, my father shared that El Paso would always be home to him. Donations will help us honor his wishes by returning his body to El Paso for final arrangements. Funds will also assist us in the legal fight against his wife, who abused him and is now attempting to take possession of his body, his personal belongings, and his emotional support animal.

We are fighting to recover the items he loved and managed to bring with him—things that brought him comfort and joy and that he feared losing. Among his most cherished possessions were his guitars, which he was previously denied access to and deeply missed.

Any support during this time is greatly appreciated as we work to honor my father’s life, protect his legacy, and seek justice for the harm he endured.