MTSTCIL Service Stories

Mrs. B
Age 84
Raleigh County
Project - Assistive Technology
Total Project Cost: $661.65

Mrs. B requested hearing aids in 2001 and was put on the WV Division of Rehabilitation Services' waiting list for independent living services. She had difficulty communicating at the grocery store, doctor's office and particularly on the telephone. Mrs. B lived alone and was afraid that if she fell or needed assistance she would not be able to use the telephone to call for help. She had contacted many agencies for assistance without success and was in jeopardy of being institutionalized.

In 2003, MTSTCIL was able to provide assistance with a hearing aid evaluation and the purchase of hearing aids. Mrs. B was very appreciative saying she can hear people on the telephone now, can hear the clerks at the grocery store, doesn't have trouble hearing her doctor and feels more confident living alone.

Mrs. R
Age 68
Raleigh County
Project: Home Modifications
Total Project Cost: $1,485

Mrs. R is married and lives at home with her husband. She has breast cancer and a tumor on her spine. The tumor left her unable to ambulate and she uses a wheelchair for mobility in the home. Mrs. R reported that for over six years she felt "like a prisoner in my own home". Mrs. R was unable to leave her home and spent many days in bed or just sitting in her wheelchair because she was unable to get out of her house. When she had medical appointments, the only way she could get out of the house is if her husband and family members would lift her off the porch in the wheelchair to take her to the automobile. Mrs. R was afraid of being at home alone in case of fire or other emergency because she was unable to get out of the house.

In 2003, MTSTCIL built a ramp that allows Mrs. R full access to her home while using her wheelchair. Mrs. R is now able to travel with her husband to the store, for medical appointments, church and to just simply take a drive. Mrs. R is no longer a prisoner in her own home.