THE BINDER FAMILY NEEDS YOUR HELP

In June 2021, Brooks was diagnosed with Amyotrophic Lateral Sclerosis (ALS, or Lou Gehrig’s disease). For more than a year before his diagnosis, Brooks had experienced weakness in his hands, which he assumed was arthritis or perhaps nerve damage from an old sports injury to his wrist. The diagnosis of ALS was a terrible and confusing surprise to Brooks and Carolin, his wife and life partner for more than 30 years, and to their four sons. Their lives have been upended on many different levels.

That same month, Brooks had to shut down his solo law practice as the dysfunction in his hands and speech impaired his ability to provide the sophisticated legal representation his clients deserved. Walking away from the business he built over 28 years has been emotionally devastating for Brooks and his family. And as ALS progressed, they were forced into the unimaginable position of losing their income at the exact moment medical expenses and caregiving needs began to rise beyond anything they ever planned for.

Today, Brooks is living with the full impact of ALS. After being hospitalized with COVID in November 2023, he needed an emergency tracheostomy. Since then, he has relied on 24/7 care and life-supporting machines. He can no longer move on his own and must depend on multiple medical devices, constant monitoring, and hands-on help for even the smallest needs.

Carolin, his wife, carries an enormous load as his main caregiver. She is by his side day and night, often running on little sleep, doing everything she can to keep him safe and comfortable. Paid caregivers step in for respite, but the level of care Brooks requires is physically and emotionally overwhelming for their entire family.

In August of last year, Brooks was back in the hospital with dangerously high blood sugar. His vision had gotten so bad he was unable to control his tobii, which is how he communicates. To everyone’s shock, he was diagnosed with diabetes. On top of all the care that ALS requires, Brooks now requires new treatments, supplies, and constant monitoring. Sadly, that is even more costs out of pocket.

Yet even in the hardest moments, Brooks still finds joy. His 22-month-old granddaughter, Winter, is such a bright spot in his world. Her visits bring him smiles and comfort as he pushes forward with such grace.

Blessed with a loving and supportive community, the family continues to navigate an exhausting, emotional, and financially overwhelming journey. Any support you can offer will make a meaningful difference in their lives during this deeply difficult time.