The heart-wrenching tale of four siblings grappling with the loss of their mother, Sheneice Simms, just weeks before Christmas, has sparked a wave of generosity from thousands of donors eager to secure a brighter future for the grieving family.
The viral moment that drew widespread attention featured Micah, the eldest child, ringing the doorbell of neighbors to wish them Merry Christmas.
On Christmas Day around 6:30 p.m., Micah is seen ringing his neighbor’s doorbell only to have an automated answering machine informing him that no one was home, as reported by Daily Mail.
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Encouraged to leave a message, the boy says: “Merry Christmas! That’s all I gotta say. I wanted to make myself happier by coming out to say Merry Christmas. My mom died a couple of weeks back. That’s all I have to say: Merry Christmas. I like the decorations on your door.”
Following the incident on Christmas night, the neighbor, Sharon Gonzalez, shared the video on her personal Facebook page along with a concise note.
“This young boy knocked on my door today while we were away,” she wrote alongside the video. “I don’t know him but his message broke my heart.”
“First I want to say Merry Christmas to you too, and I’m sorry for your mother’s loss I know what it’s like not having your loved ones with you during the holidays.”
“I know you said you’re doing this to feel happy but you made me happy as well,” her note said.
After Gonzalez’s Facebook post featuring Micah’s touching video gained viral traction, many individuals expressed their desire to support the grieving family. Within days, Gonzalez provided an update, revealing that she had identified Micah’s aunt, Sherell Ferrer. She shared a GoFundMe link aimed at raising funds for Simms’ four children, whose mother died at the age of 33 on November 29.
The GoFundMe explained the unexpected nature of Simms’ passing, leaving her children to face an uncertain future. The cause of her death remains unknown.
Gonzalez linked to the family’s Amazon Wish List for those willing to offer specific assistance.
“Sheneice was the heart and soul of her family, a devoted mother who worked tirelessly to provide for her children. Her sudden departure has left a void that can never be filled, and the grief the kids are experiencing is immeasurable,” the GoFundMe stated.
In under a week, the GoFundMe campaign established for Simms’ family has garnered an impressive sum of almost $150,000 from nearly 5,000 contributors, including several generous donations of $1,000 each.
The comments accompanying these contributions conveyed heartfelt well wishes for Simms’ children, with many donors expressing that they were deeply touched by Micah’s Christmas video.
“Sending you all my condolences, love and prayers. May god be with your family comforting you guys and giving you peace during this difficult time,” one indicated.
“The world needs more people like Micah. You’re all going to be okay,” a second shared.
