Thomas Red Bear has spent his life creating art and caring for others. Tom grew up in Hot Springs, SD and the Pine Ridge reservation. He was raised by his grandmother after being orphaned at the age of five and subsequently took on many parenting responsibilities in the care of his younger siblings. Tom had a talent for finding people who needed help and guidance. He cared for many people throughout his life, frequently befriending strangers and mentoring those in need of love and support.

Like all Indigenous people he has suffered from the effects of the boarding school system and was never given the opportunities that non-Indigenous people are afforded. Despite the circumstances of his childhood Tom pursued higher education and went on to become a master stone sculptor. Tom is a highly skilled artist who formerly created hyper realistic sculptures out of wood and stone.

Indigenous people not only suffer through personal trauma but also live with generational trauma, Tom is no exception. Though he constantly had to work through this trauma he always put his children first. He is a father, grandfather, brother, and uncle. As a parent Tom ensured his daughters grew up immersed in their culture and history. He taught his children strength and perseverance providing them with unimaginable experiences and tools to navigate the world as strong Indigenous Women.

Due to years of untreated diabetes Tom has started to experience severe neurological effects. Because of this he is no longer able to create his art, tell his stories, remember family or care for himself. For the past two years Tom has relied on his children for primary care. Tom’s condition has progressed very rapidly due to the inability to attain proper housing and healthcare. He is no longer able to perform daily living activities, manage his medications, or live safely on his own. After suffering several falls, which lead to numerous fractures, his children made the decision to find alternative housing.

Tom has been accepted to a tribal nursing home out of state where we hope his health can improve while also attending to the shared trauma of our people, the Oglala. Tom is a highly gifted and intelligent person who has many stories to tell and art to share with the world. We want him to thrive once again.

Because of his illness Tom is unable to financially support himself. Though he has received funding for his care in a nursing facility, travel expenses have been taken over by his children. We would appreciate any financial support you can afford to help us make this journey and better his quality of life.