My name is Carla, and I’m reaching out on behalf of my father, Carl Schulz. Carl has always been an incredibly smart and accomplished man. He led computer programs for the Hubble spacecraft and the lunar orbiter, working under contract with NASA. His team even helped create GPS technology for defense contractors. Carl has done so much for this country, and he graduated from Stanford in physics. Now, he is facing one of the toughest battles of his life—Alzheimer’s disease.

My husband and I are his primary caregivers, and he lives with us in our home. We do everything we can to make sure he is safe, comfortable, and cared for, but the demands of full-time caregiving have become overwhelming. The cost of even part-time caregiving is more than we can afford, and we are struggling to keep up. We want to keep Carl at home, surrounded by family, for as long as possible. Having specialized caregivers would not only give us much-needed respite, but also help Carl stay engaged and receive the support he needs to maintain his quality of life.

Any support would mean the world to us. We are in desperate need of help. My father does not qualify for Medicaid, but just makes a little bit over and it’s not enough for us to get proper healthcare for his needs. John and I are not experts. We’re trying to survive every day with this disease. It’s one of the worst things we’ve ever experienced. I never thought I would ask for help, but here I am, hoping that with your kindness, we can give Carl the care he deserves.