To The Editor:
Since 2003 we have been addressing Senators, Governors, County Legislators, politicians (and prospective politicians), regarding a transportation problem with United Family Services, Department of Aging, for transportation to and from Stephentown.
My husband’s health required multiple doctors and treatments in the Albany area. The van service has been very sporadic. Since May of this year we have requested the van service 21 times. He received it twice. There never has been a problem with the Veterans Department going to their facility in Albany. The American Cancer Society and the Immaculate Conception Church in New Lebanon were able to give him some assistance. Our last resort to get medical transportation was to rent an apartment in Rensselaer and prepare the house for sale in Stephentown that we have lived in for 21 years.
My husband was told it took 45 minutes each way for the van service. Not his problem, but one for the County to address. We now pay rent, a mortgage, double utilities, insurances, etc. etc. My husband has worked all his life, speaks the English language, paid into the system but is “above the financial cut-off’ for any financial assistance. Income is only taken into consideration, not the medical and everyday living expenses. We spend billions to kill people, but pennies to improve our health care.
Please elect the candidates who recognize and have the compassion and power to take action for those residents (especially seniors with no relatives) living in rural areas, not only in Rensselaer County, but other rural areas.
Frances McNamara
Rensselaer and Stephentown