In 2022, our friend, Linda Jacobs, was diagnosed with Logopenic Progressive Aphasia. The diagnosis typically leads to Alzheimer's, which, sadly, Linda and Denise's mother, Julia, suffered from as well.

As her friend, I regret not seeing some of the signs that were possibly leading up to this. Linda's troubles started back when she lost her home while trying to keep her business afloat. She found a great new apartment here in Carmel Valley, but after she moved in the lovely space which sat right on the river it flooded. Her landlord completely remodeled Linda's apartment, but shortly after she moved back in she was told she would have to vacate as her son would be moving into the space and Linda would need to find a new place . At this time, she became virtually homeless and dependent on others for a roof over her head.

A continued series of unfortunate and unlucky events, as well as health challenges, would have taken many people down, but Linda continued to keep an optimistic and loving attitude. Sadly, however, her lack of financial resources led her to move in with her sister, Denise, where she has been in decline for the last few years. If you have ever been involved with a loved one dealing with dementia, you can appreciate the level of difficulty it places on caregivers, especially those not trained to offer such services.

Needless to say, this has put quite a great deal of strain on Denise both financially and emotionally. As Linda's disease progressed, it became impossible for Denise to keep caring for her as she was facing her own health challenges. She recently took the difficult and heartbreaking step of finding a memory care unit for Linda in San Leandro.

As you probably know, memory care units are very expensive and difficult to find. Denise has had to go through not only her savings and is now funding Linda's expenses by tapping into her retirement account.

She does this out of love, as with no other option Linda would become a ward of the state. Denise continues to be involved with Linda's life; taking her to appointments, paying all of Linda's bills and spending time providing companionship to her sister.

After visiting Linda, Denise reports that Linda seems to be adjusting to her new home and is often "working the room" to make sure the other residents feel comfortable. This is who Linda is at her core.

The purpose of this GoFundMe is twofold: to help Denise recover some of her retirement and help ensure that Linda can be cared for going forward.

I realize this request may seem like just one more among many. Yet, it is my great hope that knowing the most important things in life are friends and family we will all once again open our hearts and help in whatever way we can. Your act of kindness, in any form, will be appreciated.

With gratitude!