Morristown Teen's Father Dies As Mother Faces Terminal Cancer

MORRISTOWN, NJ - Morristown High School sophomore Joseph Penney was dealing with his mother's terminal lung cancer diagnosis when his father, Alfonso Pava, passed away suddenly on April 30. Now Pava's survivors are struggling to make ends meet.

"Joe and his mother in dire need of financial assistance to keep up with basic necessities, like food, rent, and utility bills," Gloria Schwartz said. "Consequently, the unexpected cost of funeral arrangements to honor the life of their loved one is well out of reach for Joe and his mom."

Schwartz has started a GoFundMe page to help with the expenses.

"In addition to the tragic loss of Joe's father, he and his mother are facing a difficult battle with his mother's terminal lung cancer," Schwartz said. "Due to her illness, Joe's mother is unable to work."

According to Schwartz, the family was sustained by the single income of Pava prior to his death and that they are alone with no other relatives to turn to for help.

"On behalf of Joe and his mother, we are reaching out to our community to mobilize a larger scale effort, beyond the limited school resources, to support this family who is in desperate need," Schwartz said.

Beyond the GoFundMe page, which has reached over $37,000 towards the $50,000 goal, Schwartz has set up a meal train helping keep the duo fed.

Along with donations came support for Joseph through prayers.

"Joseph, you are in my thoughts and prayers," Vinroy Brown said.

Anna Bautista also said she would be praying for Joseph and his family.

"The Becht family's prayers are with you and your family," Casey Becht said.

Schwartz said that the outpouring of support moved the family to tears.

"I spoke with Joe and his Mom today to let them know the amount of support they are getting from their amazing community. Joe could not believe that so many people care about him and Mom he had to sit down and just cried," she said. "I can't even begin to tell you what an impact you are making in Joe's life. Thank you so much."

Patch is a GoFundMe promotional partner.

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