Our beloved Anita

I never thought we’d have to start a GoFundMe but life has a way of throwing curve balls. If nothing else, I hope my Mom’s story can spread some awareness and support to others going through life’s hearthearted times... you’re not alone!

It started in early 2016, after what should have been a routine shoulder surgery but ended in catastrophic flat lining in post-op, my beloved Mom, Anita Edman Stoefen, was quickly diagnosed with atypical Parkinson's/Dementia (possible Lewy Bodies) which we believe was the cause of brain trauma. Up until that point, Mom was healthy as a horse and EXTREMELY strong for her age. To anyone who knew her, this diagnosis just didn't match up, especially coming from her strong gene pool and no family history of neurological illness -- My Mom was full of life, strength, independence, creativity, and love for all. She worked for the City of Solana Beach until her rapidly progressing ailment disabled her from doing so. She was 69 years old and planned on working until the day she died. Mom LOVED to work, play tennis (as she was a former pro), and most of all - ART! She created larger than life sculptures and abstract art out of metal scrap, auto parts, and junkyard treasures. She found beauty in things that most people would view as valueless. Mom always viewed health as #1 and took amazing care of her body throughout her life. She was the eldest of 6 children and spent her life taking care of others, including my sisters and I as a single parent. 
(Yes, Anita sculpted those pigs)
During the time of her surgery, Mom was living with my Grandma in Encinitas, until Grandma suddenly died of a stroke at the age of 92, in perfect health and sound of mind. In fact she did yoga that very morning. Grandma also acted as a caretaker to my Mom after her horrific shoulder surgery. We were left heart broken and in desperate need of help taking care of Mom who could not live alone and needed around the clock care and watching over her declining physical/mental state. As My sisters and I have to work full time in order to support ourselves and Mom, we compiled our family's savings and moved her into an assisted living community in Oceanside, Ca (in hopes that it would provide her the care and support she required).

Over the course of the past two years, we have depleted savings for Mom's care and have been denied any help from MediCal and social security for reasons out of our control. Our Mom has had unforeseen debts, emergencies, falls, and medical bills that we are struggling to afford and continue to grow.
Our beautiful Anita is only 71 and continues to decline physically and mentally, but she never ceases to amaze us with her big heart, generous spirit, and contagious smile. Although her health, hobbies, and independence were taken away from her, she now finds simple joy in spending time with her daughters and boyfriend Lester whom she met at her Care community.
My sisters and I are struggling deeply to cover Mom's care and bills. Our goal is to keep her comfortable during her short remaining time with us. Anything helps and we are forever grateful for the support! LOVE, that's why we're here.

If you have any questions for us or want to plan a visit to see Anita, please contact Liberty Keeler-Edman.