By: francescaduchamp@att.net

francescaduchamp@att.net — Sat, 29 Dec 2012 21:44:20 +0000

Dear Mr. Sabato,
I honor your heart–your words…however, not all programs for the disabled work well here. I was placed in the system after I fell–and was losing the ability to walk. (I have lost everything) I asked for help–I was so scared George. First I was treated like I was lying about the pain–I was apologized to– afterward (two years afterward.) I asked for training–they sent me to the More program-nice people–wrong help. I was given many tests–the tests said I could be a doctor–or a teacher…director and even a rodeo clown (my scores were off the top)…I went back to teaching for ten days a month–while I waited for my new knees ( I left school sites in tears–the pain was was undescribable.) They took away benefits because I had made a $1000.00 a month for those ten days. Whereas on disability I would make about $850.00 a month. I loved to work–any where…it s hard to write now…I walk–but with pain. So yes, in some cases the county is doing a good job–but there are so many problems in the program.
I was given more pain meds than needed–and its not the doctors fault–but you see so many doctors–I gave them back–I still dont take many…I like to be awake–and looks like I will be fighting pain the rest of my life.
My favorite testing was the “IQ” test…I was drugged, running on little sleep..and in enormous pain at the time of the test–which ran for a long time. Afterwards–the doctor commented how well I did–better than most of the regular population–my response was– What does this have to do with my legs ? He told me that the testers do not know why someone is seeking medical help–they are just testing how we think…can you imagine how I would have done if not for the pain, drugs and lack of sleep.
my friends are amazed at what i ve gone through–what I ve lost.
I tell them…that im okay–I volunteer where I can…I stand in a bread line now–but it has taught me so much. There are so many good–no great people–no matter where you are in life.
I wont even use handicap parking–im slow–but I walk…and there are so many worse off than me.
You are one of the most intelligent teachers that I know–and I honor your thanks here…however,
I have had some scary times in the disability program..and hope with all my heart–others havent.
much respect my friend, Fran

Comments on: Proud of how county cares for disabled

By: francescaduchamp@att.net