Support for Alyce

Hello, my name is Alyssa Pihl (Speight), and I truly appreciate you taking time to read my story about my beautiful mom, Alyce (age 55). What started as making simple errors has turned into a nightmare. After 2 ½ years of seeing various doctors, going through testing, and trialing medications, my family is finally getting some answers. Although they are not answers we want, I am grateful that we now have some direction. Recent testing is consistent with Alzheimer’s. We have one final appointment at the end of January to receive the official diagnosis/staging.

There is so much that I could write, but I know I need to get to the bottom line: this is advanced. Mom is no longer able to work and requires 24/7 care (supervision, hygiene care, etc.). We recently filed for disability, but from the sounds of it this may be quite some time before she is approved. My parents have experienced a huge financial burden with mom being unable to work and having gone through expensive testing. Additionally, I have done extensive research about the financial impact of this disease, and I know we have a long road ahead of us.

It feels awkward and uncomfortable for me to ask for financial help from friends, peers, and even strangers, but I am trying to get creative while we wait for mom to be approved for disability. Any money donated will be used for medical bills/medication, gas (travel from Spencer to Iowa City for appointments), and basic needs for mom, such as food, hygiene products, and appropriate clothing. Any amount you are willing to contribute is so greatly appreciated, and if you are unable to contribute money at this time, a share with your friends and family would mean the world to us.

Additionally, if anyone has any experience with Alzheimer's, especially early onset, I would appreciate ALL the advice I can get.