I've been my partner Andrew's primary caregiver and companion for going on 5 years since his diagnosis of younger onset Alzheimer's in Jan. of 2021. We had been living together less than 2 years when he was diagnosed. Our little family unit has gone through a lot of changes in the past five years- one pandemic, three job losses, two moves, the navigation of an array of social services to get more support, and the increasing sense of disorientation and need for constant care that accompanies his condition.

I willingly (and sometimes willfully) have committed to this journey with him, and I am often glad that I have. However, that does not mean that I have not been tested emotionally, physically, financially, and spiritually.

My biggest need right now is TIME and SPACE to make sense of the gifts and challenges that this journey has brought me, and to create ways to share what I have experienced and learned with others. I have three ideas that I'd like the means to flesh out- one writing project, one practical tool for caregivers, and one monthly resource newsletter. When I am home, I am in response mode much of the time, which means I have little time to reflect or create.

I am raising these funds to pay for quality care for him and the opportunity for me to take short trips away, to replenish myself and flesh out these offerings that I hope will nourish and benefit those who find them.

I am grateful to tell you this, and to receive anything you feel sincerely moved to offer.

With thanks and much love,

Shelly