Re: opinions sought

Write a letter explaining the current diagnoses of both of you and the history
of your conditions and problems so that you can send it to any agency which
MIGHT help (it's better to send too many than not enough). List all
circumstances, but only mention your families saying that they won't provide
any assistance (if they won't help you move near them so they "might help",
they're not providing assistance). Make sure that the letter includes all of
your needs, your doctors and how to contact you.

When you have a good letter, send it to every local, state and federal health,
human or social service agency which provides service for your location. You
might also meet the requirements of agencies for services to the aging. Also,
contact all elected officials who have any connection to your current address
(they have to be good for something), and any religious organizations or
agencies you can find. Many religious agencies provide services for people of
other religions without affiliation requirements. There are also quite a few
newspaper, radio and local television reporters or "human interest" columnists
who could help you find assistance. Even the ones who are not motivated by real
concern might do something which they can use for advertising purposes. If they
can use you, you can use them.

If either of you were in the military and received a general or honorable
discharge, you might qualify for Veterans' assistance. Some professional
organizations or unions have policies of providing assistance to retirees, even
if its just an introduction someone else who can provide service.

The more you try the better chance of finding people who really care and will
help.

I wish you as much help as you can find, and if I think of anything else I'll
try e-mailing it.

Norman
.