This has not been the best of years for us, the Barrows. In July of 2023, my father (James Barrow Jr.) passed away from a six year battle of dementia. Last week, only six months after dad’s passing, my mom (Sallyanne) was diagnosed with a brain tumor requiring emergency brain surgery.

What made this especially challenging for us is my brother Sam is autistic and diabetic. Sam requires specialized care because, due to his significant autism, he is unable to articulate when his blood sugar is too low and does not have the ability to determine how much insulin he requires. Over the years, Mom and Dad created a method of monitoring his blood sugar and deciding how much insulin to give him based on his meal and activity level. Sam is challenged in communicating verbally. He primarily communicates through scripting Thomas the Tank Engine stories although he does know several societal niceties (but usually needs to be prompted on those). I have often described Sam’s condition as similar “to a computer where the hard drive is not damaged but the connection to the printer is what does not work.” Because of his inability to make even the most elementary of decisions of life, Sam needs a constant presence in the home with him.

Mom has worked to provide for herself and Sam. After years in accounting, she formed her own business: Northeast Georgia Financial Management Services, a “concierge accounting for senior adults.” As a small business and employee of 1, this means that if Mom does not work, she does not make money to provide for herself or Sam.

When dad was in the final stages of his life, Sam required additional support. Sam’s state budget does not provide the care needed for 24/7 so while dad was sick, we used a lot of his funds. Sam ran out of state funds in December calling for Mom to personally paying for his care since then.

Mom and Dad – Jim and Sallyanne – have meant so much, to so many. My hope is that as Mom continues her recovery, she will be able to take the time she needs to focus on her health. This can only happen with the financial support from our friends.

In the midst of navigating what this diagnosis means for our family’s future, we are under significant stress from financial worry. The medical bills for Mom’s care, the legal retainers and fees needed to settle Dad’s estate, and the everyday expenses of life are all mounting.  As we focus on supporting each other through this difficult time, we humbly ask for your financial assistance.  Your generosity will make a tremendous difference in helping us manage these costs and continue to care for our family’s needs. Thank you for your kindness and support.