Let’s Get Topaz Back on Her Feet!

Friends, I am Caterina and Topaz is one of my sheroes! The first time I saw her, a purple-haired woman in her fifties, sunbathing topless on the beach at Fire Island, I knew she was my kind of gal pal! At the time, I didn’t realize she would become a close friend, mentor, inspiration, and my go-to for all things fun and sexy for three decades.

Topaz is a vibrant, exciting, independent woman who loves life. She loves swing dancing, restaurant week, performing, partying, raising hell, and flirting with almost every cute guy she meets. For a long time, it seemed like nothing could slow her down… but that, unfortunately, wasn’t the case.

A bout of pneumonia in the fall left her needing supplemental oxygen, and a fall in December left her with a broken hip.A pin was put in her hip, and it's healing beautifully, but a series of medical setbacks meant that she spent a lot more time lying in a hospital bed than getting the physical therapy she needed. More than two months after her fall, she’s had less than 4 weeks of physical therapy.

Topaz has finally been able to stay consistently in rehab since February 14 and is making significant progress. However, she needs more therapy before moving back to her apartment, where she lives alone. Her indomitable daughter, Jenny, is working very hard to get her back safely into her home - Jenny is just as in love with and in awe of Topaz as everyone else who knows her.. Jenny has been traveling between her home in Somerville, MA and New York City weekly but will not be able to be her full-time caretaker once Topaz comes home. Besides, Topaz is too damned independent to be comfortable with Jenny taking care of her. Topaz will tell you Jenny has her own life to live that is how Topaz prefers it!

But she’s been making great strides, and should be ready to live independently by the end of March. However, Topaz’s insurance said they would not pay for her stay in rehab past March 4th. Jenny is appealing this decision, but Topaz may well be liable for any costs incurred as she stays in the facility long enoughtto regain her strength. Even if the appeal is granted, after the first 20 days, insurance only covers 80% - and the first 20 days of Topaz’ rehab were almost entirely negated by the time she spent in the hospital for unrelated things.

Estimated Expenses

In addition to rehab, there will need to be some changes made to Topaz’ apartment (putting in grab bars, increasing light, making the bathroom accessible) so she can take care of herself on her own. Plus, of course, there will be a medical bills coming in over the coming year. So, Topaz is looking at a lot of expenses.

Room at the VillageCare Rehabilitation and Nursing Center ($1,025 per day, for two to three weeks): $14,250-21,525 if appeal is denied; $2,800-4,200 if appeal is granted.

Estimated costs for apartment changes: $3,000

Estimated medical costs not covered by Medicare: $25,000

Total Estimated Expenses: $30,800-49,525

This is a huge undertaking for Topaz and Jenny as her support. Any support will be greatly appreciated. LET'S GET TOPAZ HOME!

When you donate, please leave a note for Topaz that she can read! Your best memory of your time with her or some other tidbit that will give her a spiritual lift knowing you are thinking of her.