I want to tell you about “Fred.”
Fred is a farmer, about 70 years old. He used to be a preacher. Fairly simple man, but as nice as they come and wouldn’t hurt a fly. He is more or less retired (no “real” income, other than the pittance he makes from a small side business he has) and relying on his savings for living… which isn’t much.
About 2 years ago his wife was hospitalized for about 6 months. She almost died. She is home now and semi-functional but he still has to take her to the toilet and wipe her ass in addition to all the home/farm work.
While this happens, his brother-in-law, “Eddie” moved in with them. He is about 70 as well, and both physically and mentally ill. He’ll talk to the wall for hours on end, throw food around and piss and shit his pants from time to time. He’ll pick cigarette butts off the ground and either smoke them or eat them. He has to wait on him hand and foot as well.
About a year or so ago, Fred and his family was involved on a accident on the highway… someone hit them. Totalled their vehicle and injured them somewhat. The offenders insurance co thoughtfully offered to pay them out for their vehicle (worth about $1500) and gave them $3K as a settlement. He took it without consulting a lawyer. :rolleyes: His neck still hurts.
A month or so after that, they were driving home and hit a goose. The goose came through the window and beat the shit out of everyone in the van before it finally died.
He had an accident with a saw and had to be hospitalized for a few days with a bad cut.
His barn with his small side business burnt down about 9 months ago. He got some bad burns trying to save it.
A week or so after this a Moose wandered on his property and tried to attack him. It went nuts and chased him around. A neighbor saw this happen and shot it.
His daughter moved home around this time to help out (something good, hopefully).
He needed a new-ish vehicle terribly, so he finally got approved for a newer mini-van a couple months ago. Payments were “tight” but he knew he could afford it.
He found out this week his daughter (the one living with him to help out) has Multiple Sclerosis. The Doctor told him it’ll probably cost between $2000-$3000 per/month for care. She has no insurance and just recently lost her job.
He’s probably going to have to sell his farm, van and everything else he owns. He doesn’t know how much the government will help out with care for his family (they ALL need help) and he is scared stiff.
He said all he has left is God.
I feel so sorry for the man.
