A Journey of Love: Caring for My Grandparents

@@Donors Please note: The goal has changed because my grandfather's health has declined and I am not sure if I will be able to leave him for a long amount of time.@@

For the past five years, I have had the profound privilege and challenge of being the primary caregiver for my grandparents, two incredible souls who have shaped my life in countless ways. My grandmother was not just my caregiver; she was my best friend and confidante. She dedicated 30 years to caring for my mother, who is no longer with us. Losing her left a void in my heart that I still struggle to fill. Now, I find myself caring for my grandmother, who has fallen victim to Alzheimer's. It is a heart-wrenching experience to see the woman who once held our family together slowly fade away, her vibrant spirit dimmed by memory loss. I hold on tight to the moments of clarity we share, cherishing the laughter and love that remind me of the bond we had.

My grandfather’s health journey has been equally daunting. He battles congestive heart failure (CHF), chronic obstructive pulmonary disease (COPD), kidney failure, and dementia. With a pacemaker keeping his heart ticking, he often struggles to recognize me, yet I see the strength of the man I love in his eyes. The weight of his illness is heavy, but I remain committed to ensuring he receives the care he needs.

This journey has led me to make the difficult decision to uproot my children from their school in New Jersey and move to Kentucky. While this transition is filled with uncertainty, my love for my grandparents drives me to provide them with the best possible care. However, there is a significant hurdle ahead: my grandparents' house requires extensive repairs before it can be sold, allowing me to move my grandfather and my special needs uncle back to New Jersey for the specialized care they deserve.

To make this transition possible, I am reaching out for your support through a GoFundMe campaign. Our goal is to raise $20,000 to cover the necessary repairs on the house. Your generous donations will not only help us create a safe and comfortable living environment for my grandfather but also allow my family to stay close together during this challenging time.

Every contribution, no matter how small, brings us one step closer to ensuring my grandfather can live with dignity and care in his twilight years. Your kindness will help us honor the memories of my grandmother and mother, providing my grandfather and uncle with the love and support they so desperately need.

Thank you for taking the time to read our story. If you feel moved to help, please visit our GoFundMe page. Your generosity means the world to us as we navigate this heartfelt journey together.

With heartfelt gratitude,

Cassandra