Thursday, April 2, 2009

News & Tidbits

I got a call from the VA! It seems they are going to start "homemaker" services for Robert immediately. The woman asked me if my husband was receiving 100% and I said yes 70% service-connected and 30% unemployability which was equal to 100%. She said she was glad I knew this. The homemaker will come 4 hours per week, will wash his clothes, vacuum, do dishes and even go shopping if necessary. They are also going to send physical therapy to us. The lady who called was wonderful. She explained the ins and outs of the service and that the homemaker is an indefinite assignment. I thank you all for your prayers. The first lady at social work told us it would be at least 3 months before any action would be taken and that we would be turned down. Isn't God good? I asked for and received prayer and this has happened so fast it makes my head swim.

My mom told me when I was young that my first option should be prayer. Of course, being human, I end up praying when all else fails. I wish I hadn't said that. I could erase it. I pray every day, more than once a day. Here's the rub: I forget to pray for me. Rob and I prayed about asking for help from the VA. The truth be told, I have been stressed out about all of this. Rob's back is really bad, his ankle needs to be fused and now he can't drive. He used to do a lot of the housework, especially while I was down for so long. I knew it was my turn. But the responsibility is a bit overwhelming. We got wise counsel from Tom and Sharon, from Mary and from Manny. We might have found our way through the bureaucracy without help. Probably would have. But by then I would be burned out. Thank God for good friends and relatives! You guys are the best.

I just had a chance to talk to Tom and hear that he's been able to visit his wife Sharon in the hospital daily. The recovery from heart surgery is slow and I want to ask again that you pray for her. I would like some love to go out to Sharon. She's a wonderful lady. Go on over to his blog to give him some encouragement as well. He'll tell Sharon you visited.

You are all in my prayers and I am so blessed to know you and read about your lives. Until next time, be blessed.

8 comments:

Carolyn said...

Penny, I am so glad that you guys received a quick answer! God is Amazing! I am glad also that so many people love you and are able to help! You are a blessing to us. I wish I could do more, but I do keep you and Rob in my prayers. God Bless you Penny and Rob!

Pamela said...

The 4 hours/week of help will be a blessing, but it will go quickly. Make a list of the most important things you want her to do for you. I'm glad you got such a quick answer.
Take care of yourselves, and have a great weekend!
xoxox

Heli gunner Tom said...

Well now... it's about time I started praying for YOU! I really felt better these past 2 days after God sent some special friends MY way who got me back in the groove with my Lord and Savior after being so depressed and stressed.

Sharon and I will be your good friends forever! Wouldn't it be great to see each other going up in the Rapture together?? 'Going Up!'

Sen me your snail mail address again so I can send you guys a gift, please.

Hugs,
Tommy
tschuckman@aol.como
Jesus is Lord.

Coelha :B said...

Hi Penny! I'm sorry to hear how things are right now---sending you my thoughts and prayers--hope things get better for the both of you. Hugs - Julie

Chris/cacklinrosie101 said...

Hi Penny, Praise the Lord! I work for VA but at the Regional Office. Really, if Rob gets 100%, it shouldn't matter if it's due to unemployability or not. I'm taking this comes from the VA hospital which may be a bit different. Still I'm thrilled it worked out so fast. I've been sick with strep, etc. since Jan. and just felt downright gloomy. Thanks for your e-mail. I read it but was so tired and behind on everything....thanks for thinking of me and keep saying those prayers...huge hugs!

Lisa said...

Hi Penny... this is good news indeed and a wonderful answer to prayer. I never cease to be amazed at how truly caring God is and how much He provides for us even when sometimes we don't ask.
Lisa in KY

natalie said...

Dear Penny, this was an instructional post. I still need to learn more but I am grateful too that you prayed and received help for him.
I hope Bob feels better soon and I pray for strength for you and the family.
Happy Easter. What will you and the family do to celebrate?
love,natalie

Lori said...

I'm so glad that you are going to be getting this service! That will be a very big help.