New Family Respite Endowment Honors Colette Bednarczyk, Expanding Access to In-Home Professional Care for Families in Need

CurePSP has announced a new endowment to deliver critical support for families. The Colette Bednarczyk Family Respite Endowment, started by Bill Bednarczyk in honor of his wife, Colette Bednarczyk, will bring needed funding for in-home professional aid to families who otherwise could not afford it. Serving as a care partner for Colette informed Bill’s desire to create this fund, as he experienced the numerous demands required of care partners. Caring for a loved one can be a physically and emotionally taxing journey, and this fund hopes to relieve some of that burden, offering care partners peace of mind that their loved one is receiving the necessary care during a brief respite. 

When Colette received her PSP diagnosis, the couple sought a plan to prepare for the changes brought on by the disease. Bill committed everything to Colette’s care and safety, while reminding himself that he would need to maintain a positive care partner attitude and physical well-being. The Colette Bednarczyk Family Respite Endowment seeks to help families prepare for these journeys, ensuring that care partners can be their best selves for their loved ones. This endowment is a true testament to resilience, family, love and the unwavering dedication of care partners like Bill. 

Bill’s experience caring for Collette highlighted the need for accessible in-home professional care, especially for families navigating the challenges of neurodegenerative diseases like PSP. As the couple adjusted to Colette’s advancing symptoms, Bill asked her if she felt safe at home. She responded by shaking her head, “no.” Mustering up the courage, Bill asked, “Colette, do you want to find a care facility?” With her eyes welling up, she nodded, “yes.”

By establishing this fund, Bill hopes to ease the emotional and financial burden that so many families face, allowing them to focus on moments with their loved ones while ensuring they receive the care they deserve.

This endowment aligns with CurePSP’s mission to provide meaningful support to families living with PSP, CBD and MSA. In-home professional care not only gives car partners essential time to rest and recharge but also enhances the well-being of people living with these diseases. Through the generosity of Bill Bednarczyk and the legacy of Colette, this fund will serve as a lifeline for families in need, reinforcing the importance of community, compassion and accessible care. 

Give to the Colette Bednarczyk Family Respite Endowment Here