This Go-FundMe is for our mother and grandmother Patricia Brooks. At 88 years old she has offered much to the community of the greater Bay Area over the course of her life: a volunteer docent at the SF Academy of Sciences, researcher, advocate, and more than a few hats as an educator, from K-12 to adult school. As a UC Berkeley Alumnus with a degree in Medical Anthropology, she inspired in me and many of her students an appreciation for the sciences. Now, she survives on a limited fixed income. Recently, with two spontaneous vertebral fractures due to osteoporosis and progressive hearing loss, her needs have evolved. We, her family, through preparing her home to return from a skilled nursing facility and talking to her doctors have realized the extent of her needs goes beyond our ability to support her alone. This in addition to the increased financial pressures elders like her are experiencing due to cuts to programs that provide some food security.

First and foremost, Patricia needs hearing aids. Research shows a definitive link between progression of untreated hearing loss and both dementia and Alzheimer’s. It's one of the most well-documented and actionable risk factors leading to cognitive decline. This is our first priority. Decent hearing aids from Costco go for around $2000.

While she’s been in the hospital, and now, a skilled nursing facility, we have been caring for her beloved 13 year old (but very spry) dog Sparky, and have discovered that he is in dire need of extensive dental treatment. He’s a really great dog. The dental work will cost $1400+.

Beyond this, there are many renovations and modifications Patricia’s apartment needs to make her feel safe and comfortable in her recovery. My youngest sister has committed to moving in with her and providing her with 24/7 care for the foreseeable future. It's a huge sacrifice my sister is making, but we hope this time where we'll be caring for creates a new chapter in Patricia’s life, and our lives with her, where we can spend more time with her, and improve her home and beautiful garden in her stead while she is recuperating. We want to make her yard and garden ADA accessible, which will involve the construction of a wheelchair friendly patio and path. Among other things, we need to deep clean her unit for dust and mold, modify her bathroom for easier use, and get her a nice motorized assistive recliner, to name a few. Your generosity will make a serious and meaningful impact on the quality of life for this revered elder, and pillar of community. She deserves it, our elders deserve it. Life in the bay area is expensive, and she deserves the best for what she’s given to this world.

We appreciate you taking the time, and for any support you're able to give. Your generosity will make a real difference for Patricia and her loyal companion. Our family thanks you for supporting them.