The Meader family has taken a blow - a blow in the form of a rapidly progressing neurodegenerative disease. Al’s health is deteriorating weekly, which has barely afforded Melissa and family time to catch their breath and to process their new family reality.

In the midst of a home remodel project in October, Al began to have problems with his balance. He assumed it was an inner ear infection but by the middle of November it was clear that it was something more. He was referred to and was finally seen by a neurologist in December, who gave a probable diagnosis of an atypical Parkinsonian disorder called Progressive Supranuclear Palsy (PSP) or a prion disease called Creutzfeldt-Jakob Disease (CJD) - a rare, invariably fatal brain disease. Either way the prognosis is devastating to all who love him.

Al’s physical limitations have degenerated so quickly that there is an immediate and ongoing need for medical equipment to facilitate his care at home.

With the loss of Al’s job at K2, the added financial burden of purchasing heath care, and the unforeseen care costs ahead to keep Al comfortable through this journey, the Meaders have consented to allow friends and family to help. We are overjoyed at the opportunity!

The support raised from this page will cover medical expenses, like in-home care and equipment and supplies to keep Al comfortable and safe while he is still with us.

So many of us have been recipients of Al’s talents and expertise, he has willingly labored along side anyone who needed help with building or moving projects, large or small.

Thank you for any support you are be able to contribute - we are so very grateful.