Beloved retired teacher needs a little more time!

Two years ago, Katharine E. (Judy) Murphy, age 99, moved due to memory loss to an assisted living facility with her little Cavalier Spaniel, Ellie, and it was hoped that she would be able to remain there for the rest of her life. Unfortunately, she has outlived her assets. She has a small pension and social security, but it does not come close to covering her costs.

If she is unable to meet her obligations by September, she will have to seek alternative housing without Ellie, and she will be separated from her many friends. This unnecessary move would seriously affect her lifestyle and health. Judy is eligible for a state program that would allow her to stay where she is affordably, but this may be over a year away, so time is of the essence. She needs a bridge fund that would allow her to remain in place from now until she is accepted into the program, and provide her with a small nest egg for emergencies.

She has worked very hard her entire adult life, first as one of the earliest stewardesses for Eastern Airlines, and then as a much-respected teacher in the Dedham School system. She is a graduate of Manhattanville College and has been inducted into their Athletic Hall of Fame for Basketball and Field Hockey, quite a feat for a woman who barely tops out at 5 feet! Her accomplishments are impressive, and she does not deserve to be exposed at her age and in her condition to a stressful and unnecessary move.

My relationship to Judy is friend and neighbor of almost 40 years, and, currently, a daily visitor to check on things and feed and walk Ellie. All funds collected on Judy's behalf will go directly to her care, and to ensure that she will be able to remain in residence for the rest of her life.

Thank you for your consideration and your empathy on behalf of Judy and Ellie.