Portentous

     Neuropathy is an insidious condition, one requiring adaptations, at least on a temporary basis.  So we assessed what help may be available, and found, first, the Rensselaer County TRIP program, which provides assistance on a labor-free basis.  A telephone call and then an email went unanswered for several weeks.  I do understand that they have a very limited number of employees, but we wanted  help as soon as possible so as to prevent any of the dreaded bathtub accidents that are so common.  So we found that there is similar help provided through the VA, free to veterans who have applied, no service-related disability  needed.  A call to them informed us that all that was needed was a script from his VA assigned doctor confirming the condition.  A call to that doctor said help would be forthcoming.
      Today was the day.  Both offices responded.  Good news and bad news.  The Rehabilitation Specialist from the Rens. Co. Home Access program arrived first.  What is chilling is what he mapped out as a plan for accessibility.  All that was asked for was the installation of grab bars for the tub and shower, to ease entry and exit and to avoid slipping and falling.  He presented a plan to widen the front step and install a ramp from the doorway to the driveway.  He said that was his job, to survey the scope of future needs.  It is good to know, but sickening to confront.   In the meantime, he said that installing grab bars should be no problem, and would be handled through contact with the Mini Home Repair specialist.  He left an application.
     Shortly after he left, a representative from the VA called and said they were shipping a set of 3 grab bars to us.  No charge, all we need to do is have them installed.  Coincidentally, the Rens. Co. specialist said the bars would be about $40 each, but installation would be free. 
   Moreover, the larger scale accessibility modifications, up to $25,000 are very affordable in that there is a 5-year recapture with payment deferred and being reduced at 20% each year, as long as we live in the house.  If the house is sold before the 5 year mark, then whatever percentage  of the loan is left would be due.  He said he doesn't read obituaries.  So we would pay nothing and the loan would decrease by 20% each year.  If we're both gone in 3 years, for example, only 40% would be owed, but not unless the house is sold, and the deed filed.
     So it's a lot of important and helpful information, and all involved could not have been any nicer, making it a smooth process, but it is one of the saddest days in a long time.