As some are aware, our lovely mama (Linda Murray) was recently diagnosed with Lewy Body dementia and Parkinson’s disease. Due to some serious infections in the spring, her disease has progressed, causing her health to deteriorate quite quickly. The past 4-5 months have been filled with tests, appointments, emergency visits, labs, medications, and weeks and weeks of hospital stays. Because of the level of care that she needs, our family made the difficult decision to place her in a 24/7 care facility. The facility she is in is wonderful and she is well-cared for. This place will give her the best chance of getting stronger and healthier. To know Linda is to love her - and everyone who has encountered mom and cared for her has fallen in love with her and has recognized her sweet spirit.

This also means a huge financial burden. Unfortunately, our dad is having to pay out of pocket for her care. As you can imagine, the cost of this is astronomical. There are many levels of grief and worry, but finances are an urgent need. Dad is facing a difficult journey living without the love of his life at home with him. His love and care for her - even through some of the darkest hours has been steadfast and unwavering. As you can imagine, all of this has taken a great toll on him.

After watching our parents care for so many throughout their lives, the tides have turned and they need care. We do not want dad to have to worry about his needs and his expenses on top of everything else. We never thought we’d end up here, but life has a way of taking unexpected twists and turns. We’re hoping to cover a few months of mom’s expenses to give dad some breathing room for a bit.

Please keep mom & dad and the rest of our family in your prayers as we navigate through this process. We are saddened, but hopeful that she will be comfortable and we can spend the time we have left just being with her. She’s still here and she’s still a wife, mama, sister, Nana, auntie, and friend. We love her so much and want the best for her.

Please let us know if you would like to reach out to dad or send a card. Please feel free to post comments here and we will make sure dad reads them. Mom is no longer available via phone or social media, but she can receive mail/cards. We will post her mailing address here soon.

Thank you so much!

Joe, Billy, Molly, and Melissa