Support Claire to Support Chris

Our dear friends Claire Ricci and Chris Bernauer have literally been in the fight of a lifetime. In August, 2015, Chris had a major stroke and he has been in acute or subacute care since then, on and off a ventilator and literally fighting 24/7 to move, breathe and speak.

Claire has been at his side almost every waking moment, which means she rents a room in an Airbnb in Alameda to be near Chris while still keeping their home in Cotati; a home they hope to return to. She is been absolutely essential to Chris's ability to hang on and make progress toward recovery.

At this point, expenses beyond what insurance and Medi-Cal cover are threatening to drain what's left of their savings.

We are hoping our communities can step in and give them a boost--to help cover living expenses for Claire, to keep her close and let her continue to give Chris her full attention and the best chance at recovery. Let’s help give them what they both want most--a chance for Chris to move back home with her, reunite them with their beloved dog Rocket, and provide sarcastic commentary and hilarious sidebars.

Chris has made huge strides in the last few weeks, after a recent move to a new sub-acute facility. The next several months could be a critical time to help him breathe on his own and prepare to move toward a more independent living situation.

We are hoping to raise a pool of $10,000 which will help support Claire to stay close for the next several months while longer term options are assessed.

Claire has given beyond what seems possible out of her sheer determination to walk Chris back from the edge and back into the lives they built together. Let's do what we can to help keep her close, help him to heal, and see our friends live their best lives together.

If you can't give money, cards and support are welcome for Chris and Claire in Alameda. You can write to them at PO 1265 Alameda,CA 94502.

Feel free to message us here for Claire's cell phone or other ways to support or get in touch.

Eternal thanks for all your support,

Lisa, Anne, Alison, and Tracy