Help Debbie Walk the Dogs Again!

We would like to tell you about a special family in need of support. Debbie, Deanna and their two kids are dear friends and family to us. Debbie works at the local bank and Deanna worked as a paramedic in Ottawa for many years and now teaches at Algonquin College. The family enjoys hiking in the local Provincial park, playing darts at the community centre, camping, and walking their two German Shepherds and little Ivy, a blind Shitzhu.

In November 2022, while at work, Debbie experienced a severe headache and sudden loss of balance which progressed to weakness in both legs. She was immediately taken to the emergency room with stroke-like symptoms (inability to smile, move arms, walk, memory loss and confusion). She was admitted to the Civic Hospital in Ottawa for a week while multiple tests were done and was diagnosed with a permanent, unpredictable neurological illness.

As a result, day-to-day life has changed dramatically for the Schofield-Walsh household. Debbie has lost the ability to walk independently. She can use a walker for short distances in the house but fatigue increases her weakness and motor symptoms. Deanna has been off work since November to care for Debbie and to take her to 3-6 appointments a week. Debbie has gone from working full time, driving, cooking, being involved in the kids activities, walking their 3 dogs, and enjoying so many more outdoor activities to being trapped in the house.

Unfortunately, the financial stress on the family is significant due to reduced income. The Neuro Physiotherapy, which is essential to stop the progression of the illness and to return some physical mobility, costs over $1000 a month (private insurance will soon be maxed out for the year). Many of the prescribed accessibility equipment i.e. bed rails, safety rails in the bathroom and wheelchair ramps are not covered by either OHIP or private insurance. Debbie needs a power wheelchair, but only a portion is covered by the province, leaving over $4,000 for them to pay out of pocket. Debbie has been approved for home care but the PSWs are only available to come once a week so they were advised to hire a private PSW (which isn’t covered) to fill in the gaps in service so Deanna can return to work.

How we can help? What Debbie needs most now is funds to improve access inside and outside her home and be able to afford all essential physio appointments. Some examples of these immediate & vital expenses include:

• An outdoor full transition ramp for the front door

• Raised kitchen floor

• Floor transition ramps

• Bathroom modifications

• Vehicle wheelchair ramp

• Power wheelchair

• Neuro physiotherapy

Our goal is to help from afar! Your support will enable Debbie to continue the recommended course of neuro physiotherapy and have household modifications made. We also hope the family can regain some normality from this stressful situation.

Being able to move around the home with no barriers to daily life will allow her to regain some of her independence and maybe even walk the dogs again!

Thank you for your consideration. Every little bit helps!

Lonny & Nicole Walsh