YOUR GIFT IN ACTION

Honoring Jerry’s Legacy

This is Judy’s story.

…a renaissance man who never lost his sense of humor, desire for ice cream, or unparalleled love for his family and friends. Although he suffered from Lewy Body Dementia and Parkinson’s, he didn’t like to talk about his illness, and instead stayed positive and connected with everyone. He would joke with his MJHS Hospice nurses and home health aides and brighten up when visited by the music therapist and Rabbi.

It was Judy – suddenly faced with the overwhelming and heartbreaking new role as his caregiver – who struggled. In her support groups, Judy met many family caregivers who were unable to hire full-time home health aides due to financial burden, and who were burning themselves out trying to do it all.

After Jerry passed away, Judy decided to honor his legacy and give back to MJHS by creating a memorial fund that would support the MJHS Golden Family STAR Program, which provides additional home health aide hours to support family caregivers in crisis with limited resources. These family members often take on the role of caregiver with no warning and no prior training and are often overlooked despite being a critical part of their loved one’s care.

Recipients of support from the STAR Program include caregivers who have young children at home, patients who live alone with no family nearby, and patients whose spouses are depressed, elderly, or not sleeping due to the burden of care.

“I am the sole income earner in my household and I was in jeopardy of losing my job until the MJHS Golden Family STAR Program awarded one additional home health aide hour to care for my mother. Now I can get to work on time and provide for my family.” – A STAR Program recipient

The STAR Program is fully funded by philanthropic support from donors like you. Every $23 you donate to the STAR Program allows us to provide one additional hour of home health aide support for a family caregiver in distress.

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MORE STORIES ABOUT HOW YOUR GIFTS HAVE MADE A DIFFERENCE

Finding Love And Leaving A Legacy

Raymond struggled knowing he was going to lose the love of his life, Annette. Our care team was able to help them cherish their remaining time together, that is why Raymond is giving back. Read their story.

Kamiyah’s Story – Creating Lasting Memories

During the holidays, Kamiyah was able to just be a kid and celebrate a cheerful Christmas with her family. Learn how your support helped provide holiday cheer.

“Every single day I thank MJHS doctors, nurses, social workers, as well as the chaplain and music therapist for their compassion, care and being our life saver.”

— Carmen Abruzzo