LA Times: Nightmares come true for the neediest

Nightmares come true for the neediest

There is more pain ahead for elderly, disabled and poor Californians.

George Skelton, Capitol Journal
June 8, 2009


From Sacramento -- Jean called the other day from her desert condo near Palm Springs. She'd been notified that the state was cutting back again on aid for the disabled and she was worried.

Yep, I said, and the cut most likely will be even sharper than she was figuring.

Jean isn't her real name. She didn't want it used. "I still have friends in L.A. who don't know I live this way," she said. "I'd be embarrassed if they knew. Guess it's just pride. Nobody wants to admit they're down and out."

She suffers from fibromyalgia, a disease of the connective tissues. Several years ago, Jean says, she was a buyer for the old Bullock's department stores in L.A. but became afflicted with the painful ailment and finally couldn't work anymore.

She moved to the desert. It was cheaper living and she'd be closer to her aging mother. Jean is 63, her mother 86. "Turns out she helps me more than I help her."

On good days, Jean uses crutches. Other days, she's in a wheelchair. "The pain never goes away." ...........(more)

The complete piece is at: http://www.latimes.com/news/local/la-me-cap8-2009jun08,0,3806647.column

then what are we about?

What have we become?
We can if we try.