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Critical Support for Leonard Spade - Long COVID

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Hello to all of Leonard Spades Friends and community, then and now.

I am writing you on his behalf.

Many of you may remember Leonard as a bright, funny, interesting, and robust man. He was always ready to share his time and resources when he knew there was a need.

On December 6 of 2020, Leonard had a sudden medical event. He stopped
eating, speaking and even responding. Paramedics took him to the ER. At first, doctors suspected he’d had a stroke, but tests showed that the symptoms were caused by COVID-19.



COVID-19 immediately affected his memory, speech, and balance. He remained in ICU isolation for three weeks. When he was discharged, he had regained some of his speech (enough to make jokes and keep the nurses laughing). But his speech was slurred, he had difficulty walking, and he’d lost his sense of balance.

“Long COVID” has impaired Leonard’s brain, mind, and his everyday functioning. He is still suffering from severe memory loss; his balance is still compromised. As a result of his loss of balance, he’s fallen a couple of times which caused painful injuries and broken vertebrae.

It’s been over two years now since he got COVID-19. During this time, he has needed specialized care and special equipment. But Leonard is Leonard, and he works determinedly to regain his abilities. But it’s a long and painful process.

It’s going to cost $3,200 a month for the next year at least, for the 24/7 caregiving and special rehabilitation he needs. We’ve exhausted our savings, and now I’m reaching out for help.

Our initial goal is to raise $38,400 to help us cover these expenses. If we can raise a bit more than the $38,400, it will help us move into the following year.

To Leonard’s Friends and community, I thank God every day that he came out
of intensive care alive. Thank you for taking the time to read Leonard’s story and please know that every contribution, small or large, is truly meaningful and appreciated.

We send everyone our love from across the miles.


Leonard doing Tai Chi 1979


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Donations 

  • Patricia Berberich
    • $50
    • 2 yrs
  • Bob and Roberta Sanders
    • $50
    • 2 yrs
  • Carol Georges
    • $25
    • 2 yrs
  • Sophie Spade
    • $10
    • 2 yrs
  • Anonymous
    • $25
    • 2 yrs
Donate

Organizer

Sophia Spade
Organizer
Sioux Falls, SD

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