Dear friends, family, and kind-hearted strangers,
My name is Hailey, and I’m reaching out to you during a very challenging time for my family. On January 9th, 2024, my dad, Bruce, suffered a severe stroke that turned his world upside down. From being completely independent, he has become entirely dependent on others for his daily needs.
My Dad’s Journey
Over the past decade, my dad has faced numerous health challenges, and this stroke has only added to his complex medical history. Following the stroke, his cognitive functions were severely impacted, and he faced a myriad of complications. He was unable to swallow, walk, had no use of his left side, and required a feeding tube for nutrition. After two and a half weeks in the hospital, he was transferred to a skilled rehab facility.
Progress
Initially, the transition to the nursing rehab was very difficult. We faced various challenges and my dad struggled to participate in his treatment. During my visit in March, we experienced a “great awakening.” He started to feel more like himself, he was remembering things, and trying to place events post-stroke. With much encouragement from myself and the staff, we got him to the therapy gym and he managed to walk a few steps. This motivated him to push himself further in his recovery. Thanks to his determination and the incredible support from the rehab staff, my dad has made significant strides. He’s now able to eat solid foods again, walk short distances, and is slowly regaining some independence. However, we still have a long road ahead as he continues to need assistance to maintain his health, safety, and ongoing recovery.
The Current Situation
Bruce was discharged from the nursing facility on May 28th. Upon his discharge, we faced a lack of support due to complicated family dynamics, leaving him in an unsafe environment. To help with the transition, I planned a longer trip to be present for him. Unfortunately, two days after returning home, my dad and I became victims of a domestic violence incident. This traumatic event forces my dad to be home alone, and I am now temporarily staying with him to be his caregiver until we can find a more permanent solution. This has left our family in a vulnerable state, struggling to find stability and safety while navigating the judicial system with an open domestic case.
How You Can Help
We are reaching out for help during this incredibly difficult time. The last six months have already been financially draining, and although I managed to secure family medical leave, the costs of caring for my dad have been overwhelming. I am planning to return to Oregon to drive my car back to Colorado with my animals so I can temporarily be my dad’s caregiver. This will save on rental car and animal care costs while allowing me to provide the care my dad desperately needs.
By donating to our GoFundMe, you will be:
- Helping cover living expenses while I am away from work
- Ensuring my dad’s safety within his home while we figure out a more permanent solution
- Helping with travel expenses to bring my animals and myself back to Colorado
- Supporting us in the aftermath of a domestic violence incident
Your Support Means the World
Your generosity will make a world of difference in my dad’s well-being and allow us both to recover from this difficult time. Any amount you can contribute will be immensely appreciated. If you’re unable to donate, please consider sharing our story with others who might be able to help.
Thank you from the bottom of our hearts for your support during this difficult time.
With gratitude,
Hailey and Bruce Berres
My name is Hailey, and I’m reaching out to you during a very challenging time for my family. On January 9th, 2024, my dad, Bruce, suffered a severe stroke that turned his world upside down. From being completely independent, he has become entirely dependent on others for his daily needs.
My Dad’s Journey
Over the past decade, my dad has faced numerous health challenges, and this stroke has only added to his complex medical history. Following the stroke, his cognitive functions were severely impacted, and he faced a myriad of complications. He was unable to swallow, walk, had no use of his left side, and required a feeding tube for nutrition. After two and a half weeks in the hospital, he was transferred to a skilled rehab facility.
Progress
Initially, the transition to the nursing rehab was very difficult. We faced various challenges and my dad struggled to participate in his treatment. During my visit in March, we experienced a “great awakening.” He started to feel more like himself, he was remembering things, and trying to place events post-stroke. With much encouragement from myself and the staff, we got him to the therapy gym and he managed to walk a few steps. This motivated him to push himself further in his recovery. Thanks to his determination and the incredible support from the rehab staff, my dad has made significant strides. He’s now able to eat solid foods again, walk short distances, and is slowly regaining some independence. However, we still have a long road ahead as he continues to need assistance to maintain his health, safety, and ongoing recovery.
The Current Situation
Bruce was discharged from the nursing facility on May 28th. Upon his discharge, we faced a lack of support due to complicated family dynamics, leaving him in an unsafe environment. To help with the transition, I planned a longer trip to be present for him. Unfortunately, two days after returning home, my dad and I became victims of a domestic violence incident. This traumatic event forces my dad to be home alone, and I am now temporarily staying with him to be his caregiver until we can find a more permanent solution. This has left our family in a vulnerable state, struggling to find stability and safety while navigating the judicial system with an open domestic case.
How You Can Help
We are reaching out for help during this incredibly difficult time. The last six months have already been financially draining, and although I managed to secure family medical leave, the costs of caring for my dad have been overwhelming. I am planning to return to Oregon to drive my car back to Colorado with my animals so I can temporarily be my dad’s caregiver. This will save on rental car and animal care costs while allowing me to provide the care my dad desperately needs.
By donating to our GoFundMe, you will be:
- Helping cover living expenses while I am away from work
- Ensuring my dad’s safety within his home while we figure out a more permanent solution
- Helping with travel expenses to bring my animals and myself back to Colorado
- Supporting us in the aftermath of a domestic violence incident
Your Support Means the World
Your generosity will make a world of difference in my dad’s well-being and allow us both to recover from this difficult time. Any amount you can contribute will be immensely appreciated. If you’re unable to donate, please consider sharing our story with others who might be able to help.
Thank you from the bottom of our hearts for your support during this difficult time.
With gratitude,
Hailey and Bruce Berres
Organizer
