In-home care for Andy Kiser

On October 28, 2017 at the age of 46, Andy Kiser suffered a major stroke a week after cancer surgery.  He barely survived, but is now at home.  He requires 24-hour care, is paralyzed on his left side, and cannot stand or walk.  He needs help with all activities of daily life and paid care while Lyda works.  

Because of his income from disability retirement and Social Security, Andy is not eligible for Medicaid without a monthly spend-down of $4,300 each month (meaning the family has to pay that much before Medicaid pays anything).  So, the family has been using savings to pay the approximately $250 a day, or $5,000 a month (sometimes more) for his caregivers who are with him Monday through Friday, 7:30 a.m. to 5:30 p.m. The savings is almost gone, and we are trying to keep Andy at home. If we are unable to raise money, Andy will have to go into a nursing home where Medicaid will pay for his care.  For a 48 year-old, who was active and energetic and loved life, a nursing home is a depressing place to live.  Andy will do better in his home, with family and pets surrounding him, participating as much as possible in family and community life.  

This situation is heart-breaking.  Andy has had to give up so many of the things he loved - teaching, theatre, directing students, yard work, and volunteering.  Our goal is to keep Andy at home as long as possible.  A year of care is approximately $50,000.    The funds are going into a special account used for Andy's care and no other expenses.  Any amount will help us reach our goal and will be a blessing to Andy.