This is our story~

My wife Kathy and I are reaching out to raise funds to help pay for her medical and care costs that aren't covered by insurance.

What happened?

At the young age of 61, Kathy contracted an auto-immune disease. The disease has attacked her central nervous system and brain. That started five years ago. This horrific disease has led to balance issues, numerous falls resulting in injuries such as a brain hemorrhage, broken shoulders, and ultimately a C2 spinal cord injury called a Hangman's Fracture. In simple non-medical terms, she broke her neck. The doctors were unable to operate and fuse the break because the fracture cut off some of the blood flow to her brain. They had to let it heal by itself over 8 weeks, wearing a neck brace at a skilled nursing facility. She is now in an Assisted Living Facility trying to gain some of her mobility back. In addition to the balance issues and falls, she has been diagnosed with cerebellar ataxia caused by the auto-immune disease attacking her brain. She has lost a lot of mobility capability that can't be fixed. It's gone. There are a number of other health issues she is dealing with that have been worsened by the auto-immune disease. She has been on three different rounds of chemo infusion drugs to try and arrest the progression of the disease. The damage already done can't be reversed.

Who is Kathy?

Let me switch to telling you about Kathy. She is the most kind, gentle, and caring person you could ever hope to meet. She spent 36 years serving as a Middle School Psychologist, giving nurture, patience, and creativity in dedicating her life to caring for and loving children. While many called her students "Special Ed" kids, she called them her "Special Edge" kids. She had an innate ability to accurately interpret assessments of students that was appreciated by her colleagues, parents, and students. She knew how to connect with her kids, allowing them to feel safe enough to open up and ask for help in their critical moments. She positively touched thousands of lives. I get cards from parents expressing gratitude that Kathy was a trusted adult in their child's life during their time in middle school. On a visit to a local shop, a young man asked me if she was the School Psychologist at his middle school some 10 years ago. I told him yes, and he shared with me that his father had died when he was about 11. Kathy helped him work through the grief and rough times. He said there are no words to express his gratitude. He will never forget her. She left her caring and loving mark over those 36 years, helping countless others.

Why are we asking for help?

Now we are asking for help. Fortunately, for now, the health insurance covers a good portion of the medical bills, which this year alone are past the $100,000 mark. We are left paying for the Assisted Living Facility with 24x7 caretakers available when needed. Her ability to do things she could effortlessly do before is gradually decreasing. I am working to help cover the costs that exceed our pension income each month. My health is relatively good, but I am slowing down. I'm not the young pup I used to be. We are having to drain our retirement savings to meet the monthly costs. At the rate we are draining our savings, we won't be able to afford her care for more than a couple of years. I am keenly aware that costs for you and me and all of us are increasing.

If you can help us keep our financial heads above water, any amount, big or small, will make a difference. If you’re unable to donate, sharing this fundraiser means the world. Thank you from the bottom of our hearts for your kindness and generosity.