Hi, my name is Kristen, and I’m the daughter of Bobby Love (pictured here). My dad is an elderly man in his mid-80s, and for the past five years I’ve been helping him adjust to this stage of his life.

Things haven’t been easy for my father. He’s a veteran who has lost many loved ones — including my mother and my brother. Yet through all of life’s challenges, he’s carried on with grace and positivity, often bringing joy to others by singing old classics around New York City. You may have seen him singing Frank Sinatra in parks or subways throughout the city. After being hospitalized with COVID in 2020, my dad lost some of his strength and energy, which has made it harder for him to get out and sing — something that once gave him so much purpose. As he’s aged, even the smallest daily tasks have become difficult.

Right now, one of his biggest challenges is something most of us take for granted: taking a shower safely. His bathroom is very small, and the tub is too high for him to step over without fear of slipping or falling. He deserves to live safely and comfortably in the home he’s built his life in — the same one I grew up in. As many of you know, aging isn’t easy in this world — things aren’t always made accessible, or affordable. It’s incredibly difficult to find support systems for modifications that could make such a difference in someone’s quality of life. The smallest things become incredibly stressful and seem impossible to do. I’m raising funds to help convert his bathtub into a low-entry or standing shower. Unfortunately, this kind of renovation requires removing the existing tub, sink, and toilet, replacing damaged tiles, getting replacement tub/ shower parts, and paying co-op, plumbing, installation, and disposal fees. The total cost adds up to around $25,000 for contractor, and with shower parts and co-op fees, our goal is $30,000.

If you know my dad, you know he would never ask for help himself. He’s always been the one taking care of everyone — his siblings, his friends, and me. Now it’s my turn to care for him, but I can’t do it alone.

I know there is so much happening in this world right now, and countless important causes to donate to. It is all heart wrenching and I feel very vulnerable in even making this gofundme. But, I'm at a loss for how I can make this happen and I’m just trying to see what’s possible. This simple change could have a huge impact on my dad’s safety, and daily well-being as he continues in his elder years.

Any contribution, big or small, would make a huge difference and bring us closer to making his home safer and more accessible. Thank you so much for reading, sharing, and supporting.

— Kristen