The Andolora Family Support
Donation protected
2020 and 2021 have not been entirely kind to the Andolora family. Cindy was diagnosed with COVID-19 in March of 2020, due to an exposure while at her hospital job. She could not work for several weeks since she suffered from severe symptoms due to her underlying heart condition. Then without warning, her husband Steve suffered 2 major strokes just a few months later in July. Steve’s prognosis is not positive. The strokes left Steve with a dementia diagnosis as well as Parkinson’s disease. His physical abilities are limited and his cognitive skills are severely impaired. He is unable to fully communicate and comprehend. He will require around-the-clock care and cognitive therapy for the rest of his life.
This devastating news left family operating at a difficult new norm. Cindy became a full time primary caregiver to Steve. When she had to work, the couple’s three children and family members implemented a schedule to care for Steve. They knew this plan could not be sustained long term, as everyone had to maintain their own full time jobs and responsibilities.
Then, in early 2021, Cindy underwent an unexpected, emergency open-heart surgery. This left her unable to be Steve’s primary caregiver. During this time, children and other extended family have lovingly provided care for both Cindy & Steve as best they can. However, it is a reality that professional at-home care is necessary for the couple. To no surprise, this comes at a high cost.
Given the permanent loss of Steve’s income, the temporary loss of Cindy’s income again, rising medical bills, therapy services and a live-in Personal Care Aid, the costs are currently insurmountable for the family.
This GoFundMe page is to support the Andolora family’s new reality – to provide the aforementioned at-home care for Cindy and Steve, and to cover their seemingly never-ending medical expenses. If you’re unable to contribute financially, we also appreciate a prayer or kind message. We sincerely thank you for your support.
Jenna (Andolora) Sistad, Cindy & Steve's eldest daughter, will be collecting the funds. She is helping manage their finances and care during this time.
This devastating news left family operating at a difficult new norm. Cindy became a full time primary caregiver to Steve. When she had to work, the couple’s three children and family members implemented a schedule to care for Steve. They knew this plan could not be sustained long term, as everyone had to maintain their own full time jobs and responsibilities.
Then, in early 2021, Cindy underwent an unexpected, emergency open-heart surgery. This left her unable to be Steve’s primary caregiver. During this time, children and other extended family have lovingly provided care for both Cindy & Steve as best they can. However, it is a reality that professional at-home care is necessary for the couple. To no surprise, this comes at a high cost.
Given the permanent loss of Steve’s income, the temporary loss of Cindy’s income again, rising medical bills, therapy services and a live-in Personal Care Aid, the costs are currently insurmountable for the family.
This GoFundMe page is to support the Andolora family’s new reality – to provide the aforementioned at-home care for Cindy and Steve, and to cover their seemingly never-ending medical expenses. If you’re unable to contribute financially, we also appreciate a prayer or kind message. We sincerely thank you for your support.
Jenna (Andolora) Sistad, Cindy & Steve's eldest daughter, will be collecting the funds. She is helping manage their finances and care during this time.
Organizer and beneficiary
Lauren Quigley
Organizer
New York, NY
Jenna Sistad
Beneficiary