My mother recently had a stroke, has uncontrolled diabetes, heart disease and Alzheimer’s. I moved from out of state to care for her and as I am taking over her care I am hit with the reality that she has a large amount of debt and increased need for 24h care that I cannot afford. I am financially responsible for 4 households (my mom, my 2 “adult” mentally challenged chuldren and myself) . I work full time but need assistance with paying off her medical bills and cover the cost of her much needed medications. I deeply appreciate any assistance.

- Lorraine Cruz, based in Clinton, MA, launched a fundraiser on Give A Hand to support her mother, who suffers from a recent stroke, uncontrolled diabetes, heart disease, and Alzheimer’s, highlighting the financial strain of caregiving for four households, including her two mentally challenged adult children.

- The post reflects a growing trend of family caregivers turning to crowdfunding, as noted in a 2017 AgingCare.com article, which emphasizes that compelling stories can attract donations from strangers to cover costs like medical bills and 24-hour care, a need Lorraine faces with her mother’s $10,000 goal.

- On the same day as the post, May 30, 2025, CBS News reported looming Medicaid cuts that could increase reliance on unpaid family caregivers, including children, with a 2023 study showing 29% of middle and high school students in Rhode Island already take on caregiving roles, underscoring the systemic pressures Lorraine is navigating.