With a little help from my friend

Mr. M., a 65-year-old veteran, lives with his best friend and caretaker, Ms. C. They met in the 1970’s with their partners, but both lost their spouses within a few months of each other. Ms. C used to own a Christmas shop that Mr. M. managed.

Mr. M’s health declined over a decade ago. His situation became steadily worse, and he had to use a ventilator and a feeding tube. At this point, he required a full-time caretaker. Ms. C. took this role and rented a room to Mr. M. Her home was not wheelchair compatible, but given their friendship and her level of care, this was the best option for Mr. M.

Mr. M. felt totally “trapped.”  He often cancelled doctors’ appointments; didn’t go to the grocery or to church.  It was impossible for him to get up and down the steps in the front of the home. EMS was the only option to get him to the hospital. He verbalized his persistent fear, “I was scared of what would happen to me if there was a fire. How would I get out?”

His home health team made a referral to Westminster Home Connection. As staff and volunteers finished his new ramp, Mr. M said, “I am free. I can get in my chair and I can go. I can roll right to my car. When you can get to a car, the whole world opens up for you.” Mr. M’s demeanor is better, spirits lifted, and confidence restored.  Ms. C said, “I would never leave him for more than 20 minutes at a time and now I can take him with me.” She said this with a smile and a hug with rekindled hope.