A Journey of Love: Caring for My Grandparents

@@Donors Please note: The goal has changed because both my grandparents have both passed away.

May they both Rest in Paradise

Yvonne 1/11/24

Randolph 6/17/25

For the past six years, I have had the profound privilege and challenge of being the primary caregiver for my grandparents, two incredible souls who have shaped my life in countless ways. My grandmother was not just my caregiver; she was my best friend and confidante. She dedicated 30 years to caring for my mother, who is no longer with us. Losing her left a void in my heart that I still struggle to fill. Now, I find myself caring for my grandmother, who has fallen victim to Alzheimer's. It is a heart-wrenching experience to see the woman who once held our family together slowly fade away, her vibrant spirit dimmed by memory loss. I hold on tight to the moments of clarity we share, cherishing the laughter and love that remind me of the bond we had.

My grandfather’s health journey has been equally daunting. He battles congestive heart failure (CHF), chronic obstructive pulmonary disease (COPD), kidney failure, and dementia. With a pacemaker keeping his heart ticking, he often struggles to recognize me, yet I see the strength of the man I love in his eyes. The weight of his illness is heavy, but I remain committed to ensuring he receives the care he needs.

This journey has led me to make the difficult decision to uproot my children from their school in New Jersey and move to Kentucky. We have been here since November and I have been paying rent in NJ since then, although we aren't physically there as well monstrous bills here in Kentucky to keep my grandparents house livable.

My new goal is to raise $7,500 to cover the funeral costs for my grandfather that aren't covered by his life insurance.

With heartfelt gratitude,

Cassandra