In reference to Kalle Oakes’ column of Nov. 16, I would like to extend my sympathy to Diane Ross, the woman who is suffering through her husband’s recent illness.

Thirteen years ago, I was diagnosed with a devastating illness. At that time, I knew I had to make some serious decisions. I had four young children to raise.

Each year, my health and economic situation declined. I had to deal with many hospitalizations, oxygen, wheelchairs, winters without a working furnace, summers without hot water, etc., and the work of raising a family.

I’m also a veteran, but I do not have a service-related disability. There just aren’t that many services out there, and there are priorities. There are just too many people with bad circumstances.

I hope things work out well for Diane. Sometimes all you can do to improve your situation is change the way you look at it. Make a list of what you can do, not what you can’t. Appreciate the kindness of neighbors in rural Maine, and at night when you can finally relax, count your blessings. You may find you have many more than you knew.

As a last resort, turn on the evening news and thank God you’re not in Iraq.

Wanda L. Money, Dixfield

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