Editor, The Times:
Twenty years ago I made a choice, to either go on welfare or go to work and pay for a small home. I decided to go to work.
I worked as an LPN (licensed practical nurse) and caregiver at Dr. Helmcken Hospital for 21 years. I was there for seniors, I assisted in bringing newborns into the world and anyone else that was hurt or needed care.
In 2001 I retired, mainly because I knew I had COPD (emphysema). My home was now paid for. I volunteered for a few organizations around Clearwater and I home nursed a senior for approximately two years. Since I retired it has gotten progressively worse to get around, but with my doctor’s and husband’s help we managed quite well. It is now mid-2015 and it has become very difficult to do much of anything. We have asked to get some help from home care with bathing. Wanting someone to come in once a week. We were refused the assistance because our combined income is too high, as my husband works part time to help out with the income. We were told we could have someone come in and assist for a price. If we had a lower income we wouldn’t have to pay.
District of Clearwater does have functions for many seniors, but due to my disabilities (not being able to walk any distance) and having to pack oxygen with me at all times, it is very difficult to participate.
A week ago I read in the local paper that the District of Clearwater received $70,000 in the first six months of 2015, to do a study for the care, support and independence of seniors in our area. Is it not one of our goals to help seniors in their own homes?
All I want is to have someone come in to help give me a bath. I gave so much of my working career to health care. Now it is my turn to receive some assistance.
Thank you for your time.
A frustrated senior
Dolly Turcotte Parman
Blackpool, B.C.
