Angie’s life changed dramatically after she was hospitalized on January 15 with pneumonia, which quickly developed into acute respiratory distress syndrome. Already dependent on home oxygen, Angie’s condition worsened during her six-month hospital stay, where she suffered two brain hemorrhages (strokes), one of which caused a midline shift. These events have left her unable to walk, get up on her own, or use the bathroom independently. While she’s made some progress with physical therapy, her medical team believes she’s reached the limit of what inpatient care can offer. Angie will continue outpatient therapy, but her needs at home are significant and ongoing.

I am Angie’s only caregiver, as we don’t have family nearby. She’ll need a ramp and accessibility adaptations for our home, incontinence supplies like diapers and a PureWick, and other essential medical equipment. We’re also facing the challenge of covering everyday expenses and medications while we wait for Social Security Disability to process, which can take a long time. The support we receive will help bridge this gap and ensure Angie has what she needs to stay safe and comfortable at home.

Angie spent 20 years as a radio disc jockey and has always loved music. She collects cookbooks and enjoys watching the Food Network, though now she’ll be guiding me in the kitchen instead of cooking herself. Angie is devoted to her two kids and four grandchildren, and she cherishes her friendships, even if most conversations are by phone these days. Reading was one of her favorite pastimes, but vision loss from her stroke has made that difficult. Through all these changes, Angie’s spirit and love for life remain strong. Any help you can offer will make a real difference as we navigate this new chapter together.