Hello everyone,

Please let me introduce you to my brother Alister and his remarkable wife, Teresa.

Teresa is an American music teacher and charity administrator who has dedicated her life to helping others. She and Alister, a dual British-US citizen born in the UK, have lived near Chicago for many years.

Teresa has always been a source of strength and support for Alister, who some years ago was unexpectedly diagnosed with a serious viral heart condition during a routine medical exam for a job application. Despite securing the job, he required life-saving treatment and now relies on an internal defibrillator.

His heart condition eventually forced him to leave his job, leading to a significant loss of income. As a result, Alister and Teresa lost their home and have since lived in small rental accommodations. Teresa’s work health insurance, from up to three jobs she maintained, has thankfully covered Alister’s ongoing healthcare needs.

In November '23, I visited Alister and Teresa for a few lovely days. Teresa’s warmth and hospitality helped make the visit memorable.

Then, in December, Teresa received a devastating diagnosis of stage four cancer.

Her health deteriorated rapidly, and within weeks, she could no longer manage the stairs to their flat. Their local church community helped them move to a ground-floor apartment. Hospital treatment alternated with home care until May 2024, when Teresa was informed that her condition is terminal. Tragically, this news came just as her father in Florida passed away.

Despite her own battle, Teresa’s primary concern continues to be for the needs of others. Her health insurance continues to cover medical costs, but living and personal care expenses must be paid out of pocket. As her needs increased, Teresa was moved to a nursing home for hospice and end-of-life care, which costs up to $525 (around £412) per night, including an advance lump sum covering two months.

Alister is paying these emergency funds out of their limited life savings. Once Teresa passes, he will be left with no income and no health insurance to cover his own medical needs. After nearly a quarter of a century in America, Alister will probably have to return to the UK to rebuild his life and continue his cardiology care.

Please consider a donation if you are able. Your support will help care for Teresa in her final days and assist Alister as he faces the simultaneous anguish of loss and uncertainty for his future.

Thank you, and blessings.