On April 7th, Bernard was found unconscious on the floor. He slipped and fell in the kitchen. No one called an ambulance or provided medical attention for the next 5 days, despite showing several symptoms of a stroke. On April 11th, while driving, Bernard was able to recognize his symptoms were abnormal and advocate for himself. Several hours passed before an ambulance was finally called. By then, a massive hemorrhage had formed. A surgeon performed an emergency craniotomy; embolization to relieve a subdural hematoma. By the grace of God, Bernard survived a successful brain surgery, and is currently rehabilitating. In total, Bernard has had 3 procedures. His last procedure was on June 14th.

Immediately after his hospital admittance, Bernard was left alone, neglected, non-verbal, and in danger. His children searched for him for hours with no help and was ill-advised by Bernard’s mail order in-law that no one in the family should ever visit Bernard in the hospital. I found him before midnight, and was able to provide medical insurance information and coordination with ED staff to get Bernard properly transferred to the best trauma hospital in the county. The next day, he was suddenly kicked out of his home, unlawfully removed from his job without notice, disabled, unable to eat or speak. Since April, I have been providing my dad with 24/7 care. It has been a long and difficult road. Insurance has not covered all of his medication, none of his medical equipment, and his social workers and PCP have severely delayed his prescription refills & pre-authorizations, declined diabetes medications, left calls and emails unanswered, and refused to send required doctors orders for Physical Therapy, Speech Therapy, and an in-home nurse. So I have managed his full Physical Therapy, Speech Therapy, wound care, 24hr supervision, correspondence, medical equipment, insurance, and out of pocket costs myself. His initial trip from the ambulance to a small run down ED in Contra Costa County was ill-coordinated and expensive. I am working to execute coverage and reimbursements of all medical claims with insurance. At this time, Bernard is not receiving disability, SSI, IHSS, or any other benefits. I am on family leave and moved him in to my home to provide his needed care 24/7 for at least the next 365.

Although we don’t wish to ask anything from anyone, we have been blessed to have monetary offerings by so many friends and family. In an attempt to organize efforts, this campaign serves as a channel for their kindness. I have managed to handle all bills, treatment, care, and medical equipment alone. However, any future support will directly benefit his ongoing treatment and recovery. Gifts are not expected, we only ask that you keep Bernard in your prayers.

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I would also like to take this time to bring awareness. If someone is showing signs and symptoms of a stroke, call 911 immediately. Head trauma can be fatal. It is a miracle Bernard lasted 5 days with no medical attention. Ignoring signs of stroke can be life-threatening, but God was watching over him when no one else was.

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A CA license can be reported for neglect with ill intentions related to monetary gain. This can lead to deportation, and investigations into fraud, prostitution, wage theft, wrongful termination, and discrimination under the American Disabilities Act.