It is devastating seeing someone grow old, vulnerable and not have the resources to provide for one’s own care. Teresa is an elderly 88 year old woman suffering from dementia with no immediate family to care for her. Teresa spent most of her productive life caring for and teaching children; something that she loved, though she was never able to have children of her own. She is a sweet humble lady, loved by all in the community. In the many years that I have known her she has always put other’s needs first, but now she is the one in need of others’ help.

 After the passing of her husband in 2004, the mind that taught thousands of children was diagnosed with dementia. For years Teresa has managed to live on her own with the loving care of neighbors, friends and her church family.

Regretfully this debilitating disease has progressed making it unsafe and very difficult for her to care for herself and requiring 24 hour supervision. Even the most basic chores such as personal hygiene have become very difficult to manage. She has fallen several times hurting herself and not remembering how she injured herself. On many occasions she has been rescued by strangers, neighbors and the police when she has been found walking on the street or in public places alone and completely disoriented. Her support community is no longer able to keep up with her extensive demand for care and as a result she has been admitted into an assisted living facility specializing in mental disorders.

It is estimated that once all of her assets have been liquidated, there will only be enough funding to cover 5 or 6 months of stay in this facility. On behalf of Teresa, we ask for your generosity in supporting her continued stay in the assisted living facility that will provide her the safety, dignity and support that she needs for her remaining years. The same security, dignity and care that we all would want for our own loved ones. Teresa will greatly appreciate any financial support offered, no matter how large or small.    

Thank you.