A great family built on common values and ideals was enjoyed by Dakota and Rima Nelson. They were content parents of seven kids and cherished time spent with them.
Rima loved volleyball, and her husband was a part-time employee of a nearby church. Together, they created a dedicated life. But in a moment, all they knew and had changed.
Nobody could have predicted that an unforeseen incident on July 11, 2018, would permanently alter the Nelson family’s lives. The compassionate and loving mother of seven, who was regarded by her sister as a mother, passed away in their garage.
Dakota came to the garage after being outdoors for about five minutes to discover his 38-year-old wife dying. The father then recalled: “I instantly told my 11-year-old to call 911.”
“We were just loafing around in the garage having a good time. When I came back, she was practically lying on the ground without breathing.”
When Rima was brought to the hospital, she was in a dreadful state and died three months later while still in a coma.
Family members of Rome were left to pick up the pieces after the terrible event. As he would need to work three jobs to maintain his family, Dakota dreaded the future.
A white gift box was unwrapped by Dakota and his kids over the 2018 Christmas holiday. What was inside was a mystery to them.
Rima didn’t have health insurance, and her hospital stay was very expensive. Fortunately, donations were received for the family via the GoFundMe website, totaling approximately $60,000, which enabled them to pay Rima’s medical expenditures.
But there was still a bigger miracle to come! The North Fremont High School seminary instructor experienced several challenges following the death of his wife.The family had a reason to grin because of their Secret Santa, even though they were still grieving the loss of their mother. In a message to Secret Santa, the surprised widower expressed his gratitude for the gift:
“It’s hard for me to write this because I can’t find the words. There are no words to express how grateful we are for this compassion … I just can’t express how grateful we are.”
Santa Claus received thanks from the kids as well. Losing a loved one is never easy. Dakota and his kids will always remember Rima’s tragic passing.