Caring for veterans in a time of need

Mary Ann, a resident of Coeur d'Alene, was having a difficult time caring for her parents. Her mother was admitted to the hospital for cancer treatments while at the same time her father was battling lung cancer. On top of it all, her mother was about to lose her job which was their only source of insurance coverage. The only way Mary Ann thought her parents could get by was to go on Medicaid. She even considered leaving her dream job to take care of them 24/7.

One day when she was venting her frustrations to a friend, they suggested calling Home Helpers to see if they could offer any other options. At first, Mary Ann didn't know what Home Helpers was so her friend explained, "They're a home care business that can do it all; they cook, they clean, they do the laundry, wash the dishes and drive back and forth to wherever you need. They're family owned and operated right here in Coeur d'Alene. They may be able to help you find a solution." So she decided to call for herself and find out. After a few short questions and answers, Mary Ann felt a wave of relief wash over her.

The staff at Home Helpers could tell how distressed Mary Ann was and tried to find resources that would help Mary Ann and her parents. It turned out that Mary Ann's father was enlisted in the Army and did two tours in Vietnam. Afterward, he was honorably discharged which entitled him to certain benefits. Mary Ann did some research with the local Veteran's Service Officer and it was found that her father's condition was a presumptive service connected condition as a result of agent orange exposure in Vietnam. That meant that he qualified for disability and may qualify for Champ VA Insurance for his wife.

So they filed a claim with the VA. Once it was approved, their coverage was retroactive to the date they originally filed it. Now, Mary Ann can keep her job and rest assured that her parents are taken care of without having to go on Medicaid.

Her parents receive a monthly deposit from the VA, full medical coverage for her dad, Champ VA insurance for her mom and help with anything that they need. They're able to have crisp clean linens, fresh groceries, hot meals cooked on a daily basis, and transportation to and from the doctors. This was all made possible by simply calling Home Helpers and asking a few questions.

There will be a special presentation focused on veteran issues and benefits Tuesday, Oct. 4, located at The Lake City Center, 1916 Lakewood Drive, Coeur d'Alene. Bring your questions. Please RSVP with Home Helpers at (208) 769-9560. For more information regarding veteran benefits, go to www.va.gov. For more information regarding home care, please visit www.CoeurdAleneHomeCare.com.