My name is Kat, and I’m caring for my mom, Helen Norton, in Long Neck, Delaware. Helen is 81 and spent 42 years as a dedicated school teacher in Memphis, Tennessee, shaping the lives of countless students. She retired and moved to her parents’ old home in Delaware. Until recently, Helen was independent and active, but in May she fell seriously ill with a viral infection and pneumonia. She was hospitalized, needed a blood transfusion, and since then her health has declined due to congestive heart failure, COPD, and lymphedema.

Helen is now home with me, but she needs round-the-clock care. I had to leave my job to be her full-time caregiver, and while I do what I can to earn extra money, it’s difficult to leave her alone for more than a few hours. Her only income is a small pension and social security, which barely covers basic expenses. My savings are gone, and our bills—both hers and mine—are piling up.

We’re asking for help to cover Helen’s monthly medications, which are essential for her health, as well as supplies like diapers, wipes, and gloves. Your support will help us afford these necessities and catch up on overdue bills, giving Helen the comfort and dignity she deserves. She still finds joy in watching tennis, reading, and needlepoint, and I want to make sure she can continue to enjoy these things at home. Any help you can give means the world to us, and will make a real difference in Helen’s quality of life.