In Re Guardianship of Kowalski

OPINION

DAVIES, Judge.

Appellant Karen Thompson challenges the trial court’s denial of her petition for guardianship of Sharon Kowalski, and the court’s award of guardianship to Karen Tomberlin. We reverse and remand for appointment of Karen Thompson as guardian.

FACTS

Sharon Kowalski is 35 years old. On November 13, 1983, she suffered severe brain injuries in an automobile accident which left her in a wheelchair, impaired her ability to speak, and caused severe loss of short-term memory.

At the time of the accident, Sharon was sharing a home in St. Cloud with her lesbian partner, appellant Karen…