Wednesday, May 20, 2009

HELP FROM GOVERNMENT- MPs, leaders & CDCs must know needs


This letter was published in the NEW PAPER on Monday 18 May 2009.
I refer to the New Paper reports, “Angry at MP, boy slams chair” ( 6 May) and “More head or heart” (10 May).

Many Singaporeans are in dire need of assistance and it is not easy to secure help measures from the Government and other organisations.

My wife has a total of six illnesses, including schizophrenia, arthritis, diabetes, high cholesterol, incontinence and colon problems.

I am also battling diabetes, high cholesterol and arthritis.

Being the sole caregiver to my wife for more than three decades is no easy feat and I have suffered burnout so many times.

The support structure for caregivers in Singapore, especially the mentally ill is very lacking.

Why are service providers and organisations that are supposed to help caregivers like us, not giving us the support that we so desperately need? I have raised this issue a few times.

Because of severe arthritis, my wife's mobility is severely impaired and she is also at risks of falling.

I have gone all over Singapore trying to secure some affordable and tasty cooked meals for us, but I just cannot get it.

Several weeks ago, I sought the assistance of a home for some cooked meals, but my appeal was rejected by its manager who could not empathise with my plight.

To stay in touch with the ground, Members of Parliament, their grassroots leaders and the community development councils should make regular house visits to residents, especially those who are sick and in dire need of help.

RAYMOND ANTHONY FERNANDO

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