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Story by
Gingeroni1,
Vanessa
Published on May 26, 2009 in Craftivism |
Photo by |
UPDATE: Gingeroni1 let us know the latest on the Caregiver's Bill:
"After three long years of Introducing this Bill every year it is finally on the Governor's desk for signature. It was a long journey. Here is a radio interview I just did Thursday about our upcoming ALS walk, as well as talking about the Spousal Caregiver Bill. http://jmpradio.com/pods/ml/052109TH.mp3"
[The following was originally posted on February 18, 2008.]
It's President's Day! It's an election year here in the US, and we're all getting worked up into a tizzy about the presidential candidates. It's also a good time to stop and think about democracy and the importance of voting and making your voice heard.
Kathi Kupferschmid aka Gingeroni1 is great example of someone who has taken the governmental bull by the horns in an effort to improve the lives of spouses and caregivers supporting incapacitated loved ones. In November 2007, Storque ran an article about her and her struggle to make ends meet while caring for her husband who has Lou Gehrig's Disease. Gingeroni1 has been fighting for legislature to help others in her situation: the Caregiver's Bill. Here's an update on her progress as the bill moves through the Illinois legislature:
"Wanted to give you a update on the Caregiver bill, for spousal payment. It has been re-introduced and it is on the floor. Bill HR 175 expired. A bill can remain in Congress for a period of two years and after that it is thrown out. Senator Koehlor — the Senator that came to my home — reintroduced the bill February 14. The Bill # is now Senate bill 2112.
It will move quickly threw the House and Senate. There are several other political personnel that have co-sponsored the bill. I have some information to pass on: the Senator is hoping that other states can use this as a model and form their own bill for their state. My husband and I did a television interview last Thursday and we have also done two newspaper articles. One that ran this Wednesday and the other today."
In one such interview in the Peoria Journal Star, Kathi explains her predicament:
"'I save the government money,' she said. 'This would be much more expensive if I went back to work and Dennis went into a nursing home. This new legislation is not going to cost the government a lot of money. This is money already allocated for home caregivers.'
The couple rapidly wiped out their life savings, but Kathi Kupferschmid said she feels blessed to be able to care for her husband at home."
If you want to help, write to your state Senators and reference Illinois Senate Bill #2122. For more info on how to get your state involved, contact Senator Koehler's Office at ( 309 ) 673-8404.
Have you ever written to your government about an issue? International folks, do you have any important elections coming up this year? Post in the comments below!
| Tags | caregivers, Craftivism, CRAFTIVISM, holidays, politics, President's Day |
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30 comments Login to add your own!
twolefthands
Kathi is a true heroine in my book! She is by far one of the most decent human beings I have had the pleasure of knowing! I am crossing my fingers hoping the government wakes up and passes your bill! Dang it all!
alkemystic88
I think after reading this article I am going to make some Clinton and Obama earrings. Either way a woman or an african are fine with me.
jeannesu
VintageEye
SundraSandrusi
beautifulbridget
adoreneko
Kathi, you are doing amazing work that will benefit many, many others.
truLuxe
Kathi,
Congratulations! I know how significant this is for your family and so many others. Your tireless efforts bring hope to so many!!!!
xx
asundrynotion
Thank you for bringing this important matter to our attention! Selfless acts like Kathi's are genuinely moving.
Talula
Kathi,
Sending you blessings and power to fight what I'm sure has been a long and difficult battle. I will be writing to my State Senator, and asking for his help in pushing this Bill through in our state.
I and a few hundred others in my community are currently fighting to keep our mountain, Chalk Mountain, Texas, pristine and beautiful, as it has been for thousands of years. Two endangered bird species live on our mountain, but a local landowner has contracted a rock crushing company, Slick Machines, to grind and dynamite blast, an entire ridge of our mountain into road base, which is in fact, not suitable for anything but oil and gas well pad sites.
I have been a stay at home Mom, for almost all of my adult years, but have quickly turned into an activist to fight for what I believe in. And the sad truth is, that when the Government is involved, common sense and what is RIGHT, doesn't always win over greed and laziness.
Kathi, keep up the fight, and know that your efforts will not go unrewarded.
Sincerely, talula savechalkmountain.com
BluCille
I love the shape of the shirt at the top. Where can I find the nice form fitters?
allthingswhite
Kathi- I am inspired by your dedication! The very best to you, and thanks etsy for bringing this to our attention.
younghairlove
Fight for what is right, is the only way any women should think. You go girl!!
Candies64
twolefthands....I couldn't have said it better! I am so proud to call you my friend Kathi! (((hugs))) to you and Dennis!
HibouCards
Great article. This is very inspiring and I hope the bill will pass! lol
EJPcreations
MoonTrail
Waterrose
What an important topic and piece of legislation. My husband also had ALS and it was such a struggle to take care of him in our home. It was almost a full time job trying to get the help we needed...phone call after phone call. When all I wanted to do was spend time with my husband and see to his care. It takes a lot out of you. I will contact our legislators and voice my opinion...along with letters and email. Hugs to you and your effort.
monograft
cthings
Kathi,
I agree you are an inspiration and a true hero. It is people like you who can get things done. Best wishes
ChristopherBoswell
spacejam
Tina669
PawPawsWorkshop
LittleCritters00
waltersbeads
ccsdesigns01
As a nurse I see every day people who would love to take care of their partner at home but feel as if no one is there for them. Best of luck and know that lots of us in the medical field still are able to see the needs of real people living real lives.
TAYLORSTRINKETS
Kathi,
I appreciate your article. As a caregiver for my mom who has alzheimers i can relate. I just want to thank you for all your hard work. Thanks and take care....
SheScreamsMyName
icanspellit
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