Many of you have been part of our journey since my life partner Dave, suffered a  ruptured brain aneurysm in February. As time goes on, it is apparent that there are more and more costs that are uncovered by insurance and so much uncertainty about his long-term care needs.  We would really appreciate your help to cover ongoing medical and home-care for Dave as well as household adaptations and equipment that will ensure his safety at home.      

On Sunday, February 20th, Dave landed at St. Anthony’s Hospital Neurovascular ICU  with a ruptured  brain aneurysm. We were at home together and able to get help very quickly. For two months, mostly in the ICU, he received excellent care that helped stabilize him medically. He moved to Swedish Hospital Acute Rehab for three weeks. His functioning made it difficult to consistently access the intensive therapy services provided. On May 10  Dave moved to a skilled nursing facility. Insurance only covers his stay for up to 20 days ; at which point he has a co-pay of $165 a day. He will likely not be ready to come home at that 20 day point.  
 
There are many positive things about how Dave is progressing. He remembers his family and friends, and enjoys  his many visitors. He still has his trademark sense of humor. On some days he is mentally clear enough to play games, and he has kicked my butt at Backgammon. There are also many ongoing issues that require both medical attention and an array of therapies. He is just beginning to tolerate 3-4 minutes of standing with minimal support.    He may do this 3 times with the Physical Therapist and then need a nap for an hour or two because it is that exhausting. .  There is ongoing risk for pneumonia due to aspiration of thin fluids.   His orientation to place and time is variable day to day.  Dave  needs a sustained level of care that I can't provide on my own and your support will be necessary to provide a quality of life where Dave is engaged, safe, and continues to get stronger. . If you want more details on his recovery I post updates almost every day here: caring bridge  

It is hard to imagine our costs long-term.  Likely $50,000 will be the start of what we need and not the end. Here are some things that money will l go towards in the immediacy of things and for ongoing care: 

·        Added days at a skilled nursing facility

·        An at-home caregiver when he transitions  

·        Accessibility aids I have started installing in the house

·        A concrete path poured to get into the house

·        Paying some of the piling up medical bills, about $20,000 right now

·        Covering some bills due to loss of  income (and my trying to understand and figure out Dave’s finances to support our home)

·        Potential loss of income for my time off as Dave adjusts to being home

·        Copays on other ongoing medical expenses 

I would like to thank my friends and family for all the support we have received so far. So many people have reached out to me, have come to visit Dave, and have made it clear that they are here for us when the going is tough. We couldn't have gotten through it without such an incredible support network. Thank you all so much. 

-Monica 

(Sadia will be the one doing admin things for this page, they should answer any questions you may have.)