Hi,
I am writing to share the story of my sister, Gail Hintz, and her courageous battle with Huntington’s Disease (HD). On Gail's behalf, our family is seeking financial support to help alleviate some of the burden of her increasing care expenses.
Huntington’s Disease is a relentless degenerative neurological condition that impacts every facet of one’s life. Gail’s daily struggles include impaired cognitive function, difficulty in communication, emotional volatility, and challenges in basic tasks such as eating and dressing. As her condition progresses, so do the demands of her care.
Before her diagnosis, Gail led a remarkable life dedicated to serving others. With a career spanning two decades as an environmental attorney for the New York Department of Environmental Conservation, she tirelessly fought for a cleaner, healthier world. Gail’s passion extended beyond her professional life; she volunteered as an EMT, mentored law students, and contributed her time to disaster relief efforts such as Hurricane Katrina and Sandy and the aftermath of 9/11. To this day, she enjoys donating blood platelets for cancer patients as that is the only volunteer activity she is able to safely do at this time.
Since her diagnosis in 2013, Gail’s journey has been one of resilience and adaptation. Relocating from New York to California, she resided with me and my partner for over five years until the inevitable progression of HD caused her care needs to exceed what we could safely provide at home. After thorough consideration, we found solace in Ivy Park of Woodland Hills, where she has received the compassionate support necessary for her complex condition for the past 2+ years.
As is typical of HD, Gail has recently had a decline and requires even more care to help her with her daily activities of living.
Beyond the financial toll, the emotional toll of Gail’s disease is immeasurable. Witnessing her psychological decline and mourning the loss of her former life is a daily reality for our family. However, we remain committed to ensuring Gail’s comfort and dignity throughout her journey.
We are deeply grateful for the support provided by the staff at Ivy Park, who continuously demonstrate their dedication to understanding and addressing the complexities of HD care. Their commitment and Gail's positive response to the environment at Ivy Park inspires us to seek avenues to sustain Gail’s current level of care, ensuring she receives the specialized attention she deserves.
In light of Gail’s unwavering dedication to others and her ongoing battle with HD, we humbly request your consideration for financial assistance. Your support would not only alleviate the financial strain for Gail but also reaffirm our belief in the power of compassion and community.
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Please feel free to share this campaign with friends and family! As a reminder, over the course of her life, Gail has connections with: the Department of Environmental Conservation in Long Island City, NY; Washington University, St. Louis, MO; Pace Law School in White Plains, NY, Valhalla Ambulance Corps, Valhalla, NY; Our Lady of Good Counsel in White Plains, NY and The School of the Holy Child in Rye, NY.
We will send out monthly reminders and updates if you wish to donate on a monthly, quarterly, etc. basis.
Thank you SO much for your consideration!
Organizer
Rosemary Hintz
Organizer
Los Angeles, CA