Care for Mark

In his mid 50's, shortly after marrying his wife, Kathryn, Mark was diagnosed with Early Onset Dementia, which ended his job, working almost 25 years installing and servicing audio, visual, and security systems for schools, hospitals, churches, and other commercial buildings. Mark is now 66 years old, and his memory has gotten significantly worse and has declined to the point where he qualifies for hospice care. He has a very difficult time communicating, and can usually only answer with just a yes or no. He has forgotten how to do very basic tasks such as getting dressed and using the toilet. He likes to wander and will get lost if he's on his own. He has been found by the police several times, not knowing where he was. Through all this, his wife, Kathryn has been very loving and patient and has tended to all his needs. On Christmas day, Kathryn had a stroke. During her stay in the hospital, Mark understood that she was sick, and was very worried and sad that he couldn't do anything to help. She is home now but is unable to care for Mark any more. He needs full-time care, which would cost an enormous amount if he were to stay with her, so she was forced to place him in a full-time memory care facility, which is still very costly, using her own savings. Mark is now staying in a competitively priced award-winning care center in Salt Lake City. Kathryn and Mark love each other dearly and are both very sad to be apart. Mark's care will cost more than $3,000 each month, and Kathryn will not be able to sustain it for long with her savings. The reality is that Medicare nor employer insurance does not cover any portion of long term care. They will be applying for long term care coverage through Medicaid but that can take months to get approved. We are asking for your help. Your generous contribution will ensure Mark continues to get the care that he needs while trying to get coverage.