On August 9th, 2024, I reported suspected abuse at Hayden Grove of Bloomington, Minnesota.

A resident in memory care had sustained serious injuries. She could not speak for herself, so I spoke up.

Four days later, I discovered that no legally required MAARC report had been filed. When I pressed management about why nothing had been done to protect residents, I was told there was “no evidence” — despite blood spatter, inconsistencies in the caretaker’s story, and visible injuries.

Moments after insisting I would escalate this for the resident’s safety, I was terminated on the spot, banned from the property, and even had the police called on me. I had never been in trouble in my life. My only “crime” was refusing to stay silent.

Tragically, just ten days after my report, on August 19th, 2024, that resident passed away. She never had the chance to speak for herself — but I will never stop speaking for her.

Since then, I have faced retaliation at every turn. I protested peacefully and was again met with police. Corporate reached out to try and cover up what happened. When I sought legal help, they threatened me with a cease and desist and intimidation tactics.

It has been over a year of fighting, and now I am heading toward a jury trial against Great Lakes Management, a massive company that owns dozens of senior care properties across the Twin Cities.

I lost my job, my stability, and nearly everything for doing what was right. But I will not lose this fight. I am determined to hold them accountable — for the resident I tried to protect, for the countless elders whose voices are silenced, and for the truth.

Elder abuse happens to 1 in 10 seniors in the U.S., but only 1 in 24 cases are reported. This is part of the reason. This is part of the problem. But together, we can be part of the solution.

Please consider donating to help cover the legal costs of this case. Your support means more than just helping me — it means standing up for every elder who cannot speak for themselves.

Galatians 6:9 “Let us not become weary in doing good, for at the proper time we will reap a harvest if we do not give up.”