My Dad has a deep brain stimulator for his Parkinson's Disease.
It helps regulate the tremors he gets. The battery popped an alert that it needed to be swapped a few weeks ago, and yesterday it failed entirely.
My understanding is that the sheer backlog of people needing care, mixed with the inefficiencies of the VA system have slowed things down to a crawl.
Currently he's not due for a consult until May 16th. Not a battery swap... A consult.
Meanwhile his tremors are out of control.
@NiveusLepus
Oh Becca. This makes me so sad. I have spent my entire life caring for people. The system is so messed up. Prayers for your dad to get the help he needs expeditiously.
@CinnamonGirlE There are many blessing amidst this storm. His doctors are calling to check up on him, they're trying to adjust his meds. Not the receptionists, or the PA's, the doctors are stealing time from their busy day just to help him deal with this struggle.
This storm is inevitable, it would do no good to curse the rain, it will not stop it from falling. But those points of light amidst it all.
@CinnamonGirlE The kindness of people in our network, including you. It makes it more than bearable, but overcomeable. (I made a word!)
@NiveusLepus
It hurts so much when those we love are in need and we are helpless to do the things they need. The beauty in this world shines when people go out of their way for us. There is good in the world. We have to look for it, be it. And love one another. Glad to hear you are experiencing that even during this upsetting time.
@CinnamonGirlE When Mr Rogers was asked about 9/11 he shared a story about his Mother.
This is a paraphrase of that.
He said when I was young, and I'd see something upsetting or difficult on the news or in the world, my Mother would say, look for the helpers. No matter what happens, there are always people running to set things right.