My Letter From Mrs. Fritz

Well, I got a responce from Mrs. Fritz. It appears at first glance that they "may in the future" make changes. What the letter doesn't say is that the people on modified AISH were not understanding that even though they submitted AISH FORMS THERE was NOTHING to indicate their comments were being assumed as relating to THOSE ON REGULAR AISH.

Secondly, she failed to say that it will be 2 years before the next review. This means that I'll have to work even harder to nag her as many resident DO NOT HAVE 2 YEARS MORE.

Her letter is also passing the buck to my social worker who already told me were not getting anything.

Her letter makes it sounds like everything is paid for and $175 is pocket money. I just got a bill of $40.?? for trach sponges

#1 I was upser because it will be 2 years before we get any money never mind the $100 everyone living in the community (on AISH) got.

#2 Many here will NOT live FOR ANOTHER 2 years (Many are palliative care)

#3 The little bit of money I got $16 is I'm paying them back was from their mistake

#4 I really wanted to help EVERYONE LIVING IN AN INSTITUTION NOT JUST MYSELF.

#5 Get the bit about the "I was pleased to announce we're giving away money BUT WE CAN'T GIVE ANY TO YOU AND YOUR FRIENDS AT THIS TIME"

I cried for two days. I was sooo disappointed, sad not to mention wounded my prided.


I'll pick up the fight and keep on the battle. I'm not going to let her put me in my place and pass the buck. She can't be as concerned as she pretends to be because she would have done something.

Here is her letter (I blocked out my workers name for privacy:


Dear Ms. Laverdiere:
Thank you for your April 26, 2005 e-mail regarding the Assured Income for the Severely Handicapped (AISH) program. I am pleased to respond.
I regret that you are experiencing such hardship and appreciate receiving your comments. As you know, modified AISH benefits are provided to residents of facilities, nursing homes, auxiliary hospitals, and active treatment hospitals, if the recipient is charged a per diem for accommodation. Modified AISH recipients also receive a Handicap Benefit of $175 per month.
On April 15, 2005 I was pleased to announce the government's response to the MLA AISH Review Committee's recommendations. This review focused on renewing the AISH program and improving the entire package of benefits available to AISH clients.
Following the announcement, I have received feedback from some Albertans who are recipients of a modified AISH benefit. Although an increase to modified AISH was not one of the recommendations identified as part of the AISH Review, it remains an area of concern for me. One recommendation was to continue to review additional supports for persons with disabilities and to ensure the supports and services currently provided by government are better coordinated. Please be assured that this department will continue to look at ways to enhance AISH client services, including modified AISH.
I understand you were able to discuss your concerns with Ms. XXXXXXX, AISH Worker, and that your current monthly recovery amount was reduced from $21 to $5. If you have any additional questions or concerns, I encourage you to contact Ms. XXXXXX at 555-5555
Again, thank you for writing.
Sincerely,

Yvonne Fritz
Minister of Seniors and Community Supports
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