Help a father and 5 children after devastating loss

Help a Father and Five Children After a Devastating Loss

Margaret "Mekto" Elmi

June 25, 1991 - October 11, 2024

Margaret “Mekto” Elmi was a loving mother of five children (ages 14 months, 3, 6, 11, and 11) and partner to her long time boyfriend of 12 years, Helton.

On Saturday, October 5, Margaret arrived at the ER feeling well but experiencing very early signs of labor. She was admitted to Labor & Delivery, under the impression that her water had broken. She delivered her baby boy on Sunday, October 6. However, within 24 hours of delivering, Margaret began to experience complications from unknown causes. As Margaret’s condition worsened, doctors made the decision to transfer her to another hospital in Northwest Arkansas for ICU care. Sadly, her baby boy passed away in loving arms of friends on Wednesday, October 8 due to complications from birth

Margaret initially showed small signs of improvement, but on Friday, October 11, her health rapidly declined again. She was diagnosed with multi-organ failure and passed away that afternoon, held close by family members and a dear friend.

In the wake of this tragedy, her family is left to navigate life without their anchor— a beloved mother and partner. As many know, the housing situation in Northwest Arkansas is extremely challenging. Helton is now struggling to find childcare that would allow him to return to work as he is the primary and only caregiver. While we are so thankful they have received support for a few months ( which has helped provide essential food and temporary housing in a hotel), we are now raising funds to help this family secure a stable and sustainable living situation. This could mean assistance with transportation and housing in Northwest Arkansas, or helping them relocate closer to family.

All funds raised will be managed through a trust account set up in Margaret’s name and used to support Helton and their five children. Along with financial help, the family deeply appreciates your thoughts and prayers. Margaret's last words to her partner were, "Take care of the babies"—a reflection of the immense love she had for her children. Our desire is to honor her by ensuring her children are cared for and loved as she would have wanted.