Fundraiser set up to help Limerick mum-of-two after partner's tragic death
She discovered her husband in the middle of the night
A fundraiser has been set up to help a Limerick mum-of-two after her partner's sudden passing.
Justyna Smardzewska suddenly lost her partner, Marcin, on July 21. She discovered him in the middle of the night.
Her sister, Ewa, has set up a GoFundMe campaign to help Justyna and her two children, Milan, 7 and Max, 6, go through this difficult time.
Originally from Poland, the family has been living in Limerick for 18 years.
"On July 21st, Justyna’s world was turned upside down when her partner and the father of her children, Marcin, passed away suddenly in the middle of the night. It was Justyna who discovered him, a devastating moment that no one could have prepared for," said Ewa, who organised the fundraiser.
"Marcin was the sole breadwinner for the family, working hard as a skilled mechanic. For many years, Justyna dedicated herself to being a stay-at-home mom, nurturing and caring for their boys. Over a year ago, she began working through a Community Employment (CE) scheme to build her skills and planned to start a new course this academic year. But with Marcin’s unexpected passing, those plans have been shattered.
"Currently, Justyna’s income from the CE scheme barely covers rent, and because she and Marcin weren’t married, she doesn’t qualify for widow’s benefits. Additionally, her status on the CE scheme disqualifies her from other social welfare support, leaving her in an incredibly difficult situation. Justyna now faces the heartbreaking challenge of being the sole provider for her family, while also dealing with her own grief and supporting her sons through the loss of their father. The burden is immense, and she needs help," she explained.
With the fundraiser, Justyna's sister is hoping to help the family cover for funeral costs - but also provide some financial relief for Max and Milan.
"Any contribution, no matter how small, will help Justyna find her footing during this incredibly painful time and give her the space to grieve without the added stress of financial worry. We are deeply grateful for any support you can offer. Thank you for helping Justyna and her boys navigate through this unimaginable loss.”
You can donate to the fundraiser here.