Why I Need Your Support
My journey is not an easy one. It is a journey that I often refer to as the long goodbye. Alzheimer’s is a terminal disease. There is no cure. I know death is the destination. The unknown is what keeps me awake at night.
How quickly will my disease progress?
What will my symptoms be?
Will Linda be able to take care of me?
Will we need a private caregiver
Will I be able to stay at home until the end?
How painful will the journey be?
How will I deal with sadness and depression?
The big question – one that I know the answer to – is how will we pay for my care? The answer is bleak. Linda and I do not have the resources to cover my long-term medical and caregiving expenses.
My career as an entrepreneur and small business owner was typical. There were successful years and years that were financially challenging. I never had enough profit in the good years to invest. I assumed I would continue working for most of my life.
My brain had other plans.
Several years ago, I noticed my short-term memory was failing. I figured it was due to my age, stress, and a tired body. I also contributed some of the memory challenges to depression. Many years ago, I was diagnosed with Major Depressive Disorder.
As my memory worsened, I experienced problems making decisions. Looking back from today, I realize that I made several poor business and financial decisions in those years prior to my Alzheimer’s diagnosis.
After seeking medical evaluation and receiving the diagnosis of the Alzheimer’s disease, my world literally turned upside down. We closed the business, sold our home, and moved to Chapel Hill, North Carolina so I would be near Duke Health where I am treated.
Our living expenses have increased dramatically. Apartment rent averages $2300 in the Durham and Chapel Hill area. No longer able to drive, I use Uber, grocery delivery services, and the local bus service to go to appointments, purchase groceries, and run errands.
Bottom line, our Social Security income and limited investments are not enough to cover our living expenses, treatment expenses not covered by insurance, and eventual caregiver cost.
Linda and I have started an online retail business in hopes of generating funds to supplement our Social Security income. We are optimistic this business will be successful once consistent traffic is established.
I also write two Substack publications. My daily research report is subscription based and the blog seeks donations from subscribers and readers. Additionally, I am marketing myself as a paid speaker and presenter. I have a compelling and interesting story to share.
Linda and I have been fortunate to have friends, family, and strangers support us since my Alzheimer’s diagnosis. Without their generosity, I would not a patient at Duke. We simply could not afford it.
I am humbly asking for your support. That support includes spreading the word about our online stores, purchasing from our stores, subscribing to my research report, and making a cash donation. Maybe you know an organization that would benefit from my story of resilience and courage. If so, please contact me.
Your support means the world to me.
Thank you.
Greg