Dear Friends,
As many of you know, my beloved husband, Don, has been residing in a post-acute care facility here in San Jose since April. He is there due to the progression of his dementia, and while the VA has thankfully covered the costs of his facility care, the facility itself, much like many in our current medical system, is unfortunately facing significant understaffing challenges. Don’s police pension and VA benefits are a great help to us, but the financial strain of my own 24/7 care remains considerable. Don has always been an incredible caregiver to me throughout my 17 years with ALS, and his utmost priority in our 42 years of marriage has consistently been for my safety and security, and for us to be together at home. Sadly, his illness now requires more intensive care than we are able to provide in our home environment. Even though his dementia has taken away so much, he still prioritizes my welfare, and that means the world to me.
I am reaching out to you all today with a heartfelt request, hoping that a few of you, particularly those from the police force, Navy, or other close friends, might be able to help coordinate routine visits with Don. The staff at the facility has observed a significant improvement in his demeanor – he becomes much more pleasant and cooperative – when he receives visitors, and they’ve noted that he has been experiencing loneliness. Even spending just an hour or two with him, engaging in conversation, and perhaps sharing a chocolate shake or donut, would greatly benefit his overall well-being, especially as he currently needs any form of caloric intake. Due to my reliance on a ventilator, speech device, and power chair, I require two caregivers to accompany me on visits, which makes it physically challenging for us to visit more frequently than our current bi-weekly schedule.
I completely understand that everyone is facing their own set of challenges, and I truly do not want anyone to feel pressured by this request. Your support, in any capacity, and any suggestions you might have for organizing this significant undertaking would be deeply appreciated.
With love and respect,
Gloria
