Letter to the Editor: Don't punish us for getting old

Editor,

I am a resident in a nursing home in Eureka. I am very worried about my quality of care as the government wants to reduce our Medicaid for long-term care.

I have multiple sclerosis, diabetes, and arthritis in my knees and hands, and I can’t walk. I worked as a superior court clerk in San Diego with a leg brace using a cane. On Christmas Eve at work I lost my eye sight in my left eye due to my MS optical neuritis. I also had bathroom problems. I took a disability retirement after working 19 years. I only went on Medicaid after entering a nursing home. My retirement (pension and Social Security)is $41,200 a year with $50 a month for $600 yearly that I’m allowed to keep as mandated by Medicaid. $40,600 goes for my care. With the $50 I pay for medical and dental not covered by Medicaid, over-the-counter drugs, clothing, telephone, writing paper, stamps, hair cuts and other hair care, shampoo, body wash, lotions, ACT mouth wash, snacks, etc., or I go without.

If I had committed a crime and went to prison all these things plus better meals, total medical and dental coverage, computer in their cells, and many things that I have to pay for they get for free.

The House added back $20 million in federal funds, but without the state matching general funds we cannot use the federal money. The governor wants to use $10 million for highways. Aren’t people more important? We couldn’t help getting sick and old. Please don’t punish us. Will you please call the state Senate and the governor’s office.

Antoinette Newman

Eureka