Several years ago, Anne Compton was diagnosed with Parkinson’s disease.  During the time since her diagnosis, Anne and her husband, Jeff, have worked as a team to minimize the impacts to their lives even though it’s been an uphill battle. 

Her disease progressed to the point where round-the-clock care is required and Jeff is closely involved with her therapy and works with her daily. Their friends wanted to help and turned to hosting a fundraising event in collaboration with NDAD. The event, The Compy Cup, was an extreme putting challenge. All funds raised in the NDAD-sponsored event were to be used for Anne’s medical and in-home care expenses.

“We are grateful to our friends who put on the event, to everyone who came and supported, and to NDAD for sponsoring,” told Jeff. “With the progression of her disease, we’ve experienced many hidden expenses, which the funds have helped pay over the years.”

In addition to supporting the costs of caregiving, the Comptons have installed an ADA shower in their home complete with a chair and handles. In the past, they’ve used a tandem bike to outdoor activities when the weather allows. “It’s a little more difficult for her to ride the tandem bike now. We’ve been able to acquire a tandem tricycle and are looking forward to seeing how we can ride together more this summer.”

Now that he’s retired after 28 years with Grand Forks Public Schools, Jeff said he’s able to take Anne to the YMCA more. “Her body has a lot of stiffness with this disease.  We do our best to keep her moving and the Y has been helpful for her.”

Jeff ended by sharing how appreciative he was for the fundraiser. “It has truly paid for a lot, and we’ll be forever grateful.”

NDAD’s free Community Fundraisers Program can assist community members with raising money on behalf of a person with a disability or health challenge. Through this charitable program, NDAD may act as custodian of any funds raised through community fundraising projects. NDAD keeps none of the proceeds. While community members coordinate and execute the fundraising, NDAD can provide consulting services, assist with social media and marketing efforts and pay for bills and expenses out of the funds as directed by a funds chairperson. As an added benefit, NDAD will match 20% of what is raised within 30 days of the event or online campaign, up to a maximum of $3,000.

In a note to NDAD, Jeff shared the following:

Thank you to NDAD for supplying the technical support and initial organization of the fundraising event. It’s NDAD’s willingness to provide staff and experience necessary to monitor donations and organize the website for the fundraiser. Anne and I both thank you for the important things this organization represents. It’s truly spectacular.

If you are interested in coordinating a fundraising event for a loved one, please contact NDAD to see how we can help.