Health, money issues plague Hebron couple

HEBRON | Judith and her husband, Sam, have been through a lot together over the past two years.

The 67-year-old woman got sick two years ago, is on dialysis three times a week, has diabetes and congestive heart failure, and now has a pacemaker/defibrillator.

She gets assistance through Visiting Nurse Association of Porter County.

"They come over and give her a bath and check on her, and we get Meals on Wheels," said Sam. "But the bills are too much for us right now."

Sam makes sure the house payment is made but now they have furnace problems and they need money for their bills and medical supplies, including bed pads and medication.

"She has Medicare but it doesn't help much," he said. "We just really need help paying bills with all her many health issues."

Judith is one of the many seniors hoping to benefit from the Christmas for the Elderly program.

The VNA and The Times Media Co. jointly sponsor this event which has raised more than $500,000 in donations during the past 24 years. The money helps improve the quality of life for Porter County residents. More than $40,000 was raised last year, which helped provide equipment and help to seniors in need.

Sam, who was a truck driver and is now retired, takes care of his wife. They've been married for 47 years.

"It just seems like it's one thing after another," said Sam. " I draw a lot to get my mind off of things. Everything hit us all at once."

"I love to read," said Judith. "I have been listening to books on tape now because I have macular degeneration."

The VNA is accepting donations to help. The Times will publish profiles in the Porter County editions about seniors who benefit from the community's financial support.

The VNA is a nonprofit home health agency licensed by the state of Indiana. Community donations and United Way funding allow the agency to provide care at a reduced rate.