I am the mother of three adult sons who mean the world to me. My middle son, Andrew, unfortunately inherited Schizoaffective Disorder, which was passed on from his late father's side of our family. Andrew experienced his first psychotic break at the young age of 20 and has been disabled for the past 27 years. My son has been very resilient and has persevered through many trials over the years. He's had long periods of stability, but also periods of great turmoil. Earlier this year, he had a very bad setback that resulted in homelessness and conditions that have caused further decompensation. Although the system is hopefully on the verge of change, due to the current laws in the State of Oregon and particularly Multnomah County, mental patients are allowed complete autonomy regardless of their state of mind. Due to this, my son has been allowed to be admitted for psychiatric care countless times, only to be released again before he is stable. This has caused him severe problems, and he is rapidly declining. Without guardianship, my son is left in a very scary, vulnerable situation on the streets of Portland, OR. He lacks insight into the severity of his illness and is highly disorganized and unable to hold on to belongings (including glasses, wallets, clothing, etc.), keep appointments, and find housing. He has been robbed, beaten up, and sent to jail numerous times, all due to a disease that he did not ask for. Andrew needs help to regain his life, and no one loves him more than me, his own mother.

I am in the process of filing for guardianship, but the legal costs are far beyond my means as a senior citizen living on a modest income. I am hoping to raise funds to cover these expenses so I can take part in my son's medical care, speak to doctors, and be involved in decisions that need to be made for him. I am fighting for my son's life and ask you to please consider supporting me in this effort.

Thank you so much for any amount you can contribute. If my goal is met and there are any surplus funds left after legal fees are paid, they will be paid directly to Andrew's care and housing needs.