Letter to the Editor: Come to the Medical Travel Benefit

There is a need to increase the availability of funds to help support the cost of ferry travel for people with medical needs. Limited funding is currently available for people on DSHS programs and/or Medicaid. But, the truth of the matter is that there are many island residents who don’t quite fit into these categories but struggle as they are un- or underinsured, or make just slightly above the cut off rate for income. As a single parent raising three kids (years ago) I remember being told I made $100/year too much to qualify for needed home heating assistance! Pretty discouraging living in a very cold Southern New Hampshire! Imagine the added stress for islanders short on funds who have to travel off island to regular doctor appointments or hospital treatments for themselves or their children.

Marlene Dickey, a local island resident and musician who recently underwent a double masectomy, has inspired many people with her vision to create just such a fund. Orcas Family Connections, who currently administers many of the social services on Orcas, is on board to help with this new fund as well.

All islanders are invited to a Benefit Dance being held this Friday, March 22nd, from 7-10 pm as the kickoff event to begin building the new “Transport $upport” Fund. Local spinners Adam Farish, James Coddington and Nicole Gulotte will get us lively with a wide array of great tunes. There will also be light refreshments and a preview of some of the different “creative donations” coming in for the next event scheduled for May 10th. Any donation will be gladly accepted.

Marta Nielson
(a proud member of “Team Tatas” committee)