I am David Kester and since 2020 I've been the primary caretaker for my girlfriend Caryn, who suffers from dementia and other issues. I will be turning 69 in October and living off Social Security and part-time work from home selling wine for Andretti Winery, which I just learned is permanently closing in 30 days.

On August 18, I was hired through IHSS to be Caryn's paid caretaker, which was the safety net we needed to survive in the home I've rented for the past 8 years. On August 27, I suffered an aortic rupture, nearly died, and was hospitalized at UC Davis. I have not been able to work since I was hospitalized but hope to be able to in the next week or so.

I am in desperate need of funds to maintain the residence for Caryn and me, without which she will likely end up in a nursing home and I could become homeless, separated from my life partner.