Prior to PD I was a firefighter/paramedic in Central Florida for 16 years. Then I worked in our communications E911 center for a year before I stopped working in Dec. of 2000. Although many of the co workers that I served with have retired out; some are still there and I still on occassion see them in public, etc. With having PD for some 12 years now and having had the DBS which was not totally successful for me, I find that I must rely on my wheelchair more often as a way to get around the house, it's just too darn hard to keep pushing myself and getting worn out, falling, etc. I would like to ask my fellow FF if they would hold a fundraiser for me to help with the cost of getting a lift for the chairto be carried on my vehicle so that I can use it when I go to the store, errands,etc. This has become huge because my wife suffers severe panic attacks if she goes out of our home. She has to be medicated to go out the door!! So this task has always been mine, groceries, etc. The lift would cost about $1500.00. So is this tacky or what? I would ask a friend to take this on because I could explain to them what I neeed and why. I don't at all feel ashamed of asking-they have come to see me in the hospital, etc and we are all a close knit group. What do you think? Should I cash in some chips? I just want to get the word out and that would suffice.

Jim -

You are very lucky to have such good friends! I say, go for it! Mention your situation to a good friend or two - with the reasons why this is so needed - and see if they run with it. Obviously, if they don't feel inclined to help, you can't make them. (chose those who like to organize things) I'm sure you have helped others over the years and they would probably be really happy to have a way to lend a hand to you. Let us know what happens!

Sasha

Jim,
As a paramedic and firefighter, you put so much time and dedication into serving others for all those years. So if you need the community to pull together to help you out in your time of need, there's absolutely nothing self serving or tacky about that! I'm sure your fellow FF, knowing what is needed, will be happy to raise money for "one of their own". Good luck!
Soania

I vote with the other two Jim. I don't find this tacky or self-serving at all. You folks put you lives on the line everytime that alarm goes off to cover our (most of the time) stupidity and we all thank you. I don't see why anyone would have a problem with this.

GregD

I just had to let you guys know that since my posting I found a lift on craigslist. I had some of the money and the guy told me that he would consider it sold, I could save up the money (OVER A MONTH OR SO). My daughter loaned us the rest of the money and I went and got it. So this week my brother is coming over to put it on the truck. How stuff works out, huh? I'm so glad that it did, I was having to walk about 1/4 mi from the parking lot to class last week. My legs have had it, almost got into a fight w/ someone who was illegally parked handicapped spot! Just had to let ya'll know how it worked out. I'm truly blessed! Thank you for your comments and support, very much appreciated.

Jim - the Melvin Weinstein Foundation exists to help people with PD with situations just like yours. They are really terrific - I would contact them for sure!

http://www.mwpf.org/

Congratulations on being very proactivee on getting your needs met. If you don't ask, you don't get. I'm sure it was difficult to accept the monetary gift from your daughter. My son is a paramedic and has saved my life. Thank you for continuing your service to the community and
God Bless!

Vicky Lynn