Vonnie needs help from us this time

Vonnie's life was not easy but she made the best of whatever life dealt her.  She nearly died in infancy from profound neglect but she survived. She was born with a heart defect that the experts said would kill her by the age of three.  She survived.  At the age of 5 she had her heart reconstructed in a surgery that was experimental back then.  But our Vonnie survived.  She thrived and grew into the most generous, kind and giving person I have ever known.  Vonnie was told she would never have a child because her heart was not strong enough.  Sixteen years ago, she gave birth to a wonderful son.  Vonnie became a single mother when her husband was deployed, first to Iraq and then to Afghanistan.  She had help from friends and family but she always knew that she was solely responsible for their son while her husband was gone.  She became an Army Wife.  Later when her husband returned and her son grew, Vonnie became a Soccer Mom.  I don't think she ever expected that to happen, I sure didn't, but she became friends with the other Soccer Moms and took pride and found joy in that role.  After all Vonnie had survived, eighteen months ago she was diagnosed with stage 4 lung cancer.  Through all the chemo, radiation, doctors visits and hospital trips,  she remained positive and cheerful.  She continued to put others first; to give to her family and friends the gift of her love.  Sometimes she gave gifts just to see someone smile.  She asked for almost nothing for herself.  She never complained and simply kept on going.  Finally, although her spirit kept going her body simply couldn't take any more and surrounded by loved ones, she struggled for her last breath.  We want to have the memorial party that Vonnie planned.  She wanted us to be happy and to have as many of the people she loved together one last time.  She was very clear that no one should wear black and everyone should wear something comfortable.  Her first choice was jean and tee shirts.  I, on behalf of her family am asking for help to pay for her final expenses, the funeral and burial costs and most importantly for her Memorial Party!  Any amount will help and be gratefully received.