Alan’s Story

Site created on October 5, 2020


The short version: We need a used car for Jeannie to take care of Alan, and funds to temporarily hire a 1:1 CNA to help get Al out of the woods. At this point, his life depends on the power of funds and the kindness of the collective community. I love my uncle. I'd love to help him get better, get back on his feet, and for him to know he's loved and that his life matters.  


The long version/details:

Welcome to my Uncle Al's CaringBridge website. We are using it to keep family and friends updated in one place, to speak Al's needs to the universe, and to ask for help when it is truly needed.  Alan has had chronic liver issues for years, dealing with fluid buildup and limited mobility, as well as hepatic encephalopathy. Chronic illness makes life for everyone hard--both for the patient and for the caretaker. Jeannie (Al's girlfriend of many years) is Al's caretaker. She doesn't have a car. It's expensive to Uber to the hospital and to get to visit Al in rehab/bring him meals packed with protein and love. Staff at the rehab facility are doing their best, but if Al is going to truly get better, he needs more. At this point, his life depends on the power of funds. We'd like to provide her with a used car to help take stress off of her and get her to Al's side. We're also raising funds for a CNA/Nursing student to provide supplemental basic care. Al is at a critical point in his health journey. He could recover and eventually get a liver transplant, or he could decline further.  I'm his niece, and I live about 8 hours away. If Al improves, it will be safe for him to travel/relocate to Baltimore to provide him with family support and take him to Hopkins/UMMC.


We appreciate your support and words of hope and encouragement. Thank you for visiting.

Newest Update

October 5, 2020

Journal entry by Ruth Skillman —

Alan just spent a few days at Mass General in Boston for low blood pressure and hepatic encephalopathy. He's back at rehab in NH, quarantined for 2 weeks due to Covid precautions after spending time in the hospital. He's at risk for infection from skin breakdown. It's such a "small" thing, but a 1:1 caregiver/CNA could help keep him dry, keep his joints supported, and prevent decline.
Read More of the journal titled "October 5, 2020"
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