Robin Byrd, a 65-year-old Fort Worth resident, thought she had finished her journey with lung cancer after treatment in 2018. However, the disease reappeared two years ago, this time in her other lung, forcing her to make the difficult decision between chemotherapy and forgoing treatment.
Byrd chose the latter option, knowing that chemotherapy would be just as painful a second time around. Her only wish was to see her mother before her condition worsened further. A hospice nurse connected Byrd with Project 4031, a Fort Worth-based nonprofit that provides financial assistance and comfort to terminally ill individuals and their families.
Project 4031, founded by Kristina and Josh Robertson, aims to ease the financial burden of end-of-life care, allowing patients and their loved ones to focus on what matters most – spending quality time together. The organization reported serving 229 people in 2024 and has a program that budgets $800 per patient for basic needs like food, utilities, and rent.
One of Byrd’s wishes was fulfilled through Project 4031’s Fulfilling Dreams program, which helps with humble requests like visits to see loved ones or outings to special places. The nonprofit also has a volunteer-based program called Wings, where volunteers deliver love offerings like cookies and floral arrangements to local patients and their families.
Project 4031’s work highlights the importance of acknowledging and honoring the dignity of individuals facing end-of-life challenges. “Life is still sacred at the end,” said Program Director Nicole Herlin. “We want to keep the lights on, so families can come together without financial burdens.” By providing comfort and assistance, Project 4031 has made a meaningful impact on Byrd’s life, allowing her to spend precious time with her mother and cherish their bond.
Source: https://fortworthreport.org/2025/09/25/spiritual-financial-support-for-terminally-ill-focus-of-fort-worth-nonprofit