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Dear Editor,
I am advocating group and nursing home abuse and neglect. I’m a 64-year-old single disabled Black woman living in a nursing home almost two years now. I suffer from severe osteoarthritis that has kept me from walking. I am overweight with asthma, angina, hypertension and CHF. I am no longer sad about being in a nursing home, because of my faith, knowing God has blessed me with a plan to help others without a voice to help themselves. And by placing me on the inside to see first-hand as well as having experienced some neglect and abuse as well, has made it better for me to understand the needs necessary for improvements.
Ombudsmen and reps working for state can only do so much, because of being blocked by HIPPA laws which does more to protect the facilities, staff and management instead of the residents. Too often reps are transferred to other areas of town by the time you’ve connected with someone good at assisting with addressing grievances and concerns. I am seeking strong platforms including newspapers, internet media, and/or TV shows to advocate against such abuse and neglect which I have seen and experienced first-hand. I have also noticed that residents with family and friends visiting are treated better than residents without anyone to check on them. My goal is to help create and/or change laws for nursing and group home residents in the state of Texas.
I notice there are so many charities and causes that are near and dear to the hearts of the most notable celebrities in show business, but nursing home reform is not on the list. Maybe it’s because the majority of residents cannot give accurate accounts or info due to having dementia and/or Alzheimer’s disease. And many of them have very little and no family. And it’s hard to help people that may not even understand or be aware of their rights. A lot of them even forget that they were mistreated yesterday or even a minute ago. So how can we improve care for all residents?
One way is by having mandatory laws put in place that all nursing homes must have working cameras in range showing who goes in and out of each room as well as at every entrance and exit of the facility. Cameras should be within range of each and every hall, front, middle and back, including the nursing station where many of the aides gather to just talk and goof off while ignoring call lights turned on by residents who need assistance. This would cut down on a lot of neglect.
Also, new laws are needed to be changed to allow people to keep fifty percent of their checks to have enough funds to purchase necessities, and/or other food as well as having enough money to be able to pay rent somewhere else and not end up homeless if nursing home benefits run out. I am in a small room where my roommate pays $573.00 a month, but they are charging me over $1000.00 a month for the same room. And that should be illegal.
I have selected African-American News & Issues as one of the first papers to send a letter to because, this is a predominately Black nursing home facility managed mainly by African-Americans. I was very happy at first to see that. But now, I am not so sure. However, I am surprised to realize that a nursing home administrator is only required to have a business degree instead of a nursing degree or any other type of medical degree to be employed as an administrator over a health facility. I do hope that you consider this writing as being good enough to publish in your paper. And thank you for reading my letter.
Sincerely,
Sheila Perez
Spring, TX
October 16, 2023, HOUSTON, TX – Congressional Candidate Amanda Edwards has raised over $1 million in less than 4 months, a substantial sum that helps bolster the frontrunner status of the former At-Large Houston City Council Member in her bid for U.S. Congress. Edwards raised over $433,000 in Q3 of 2023. This strong Q3 report expands on a successful Q2 where Edwards announced just 11 days after declaring her candidacy that she had raised over $600,000. With over $829,000 in cash-on-hand at the end of the September 30th financial reporting period, Edwards proves again that she is the clear frontrunner in the race. “I am beyond grateful for the strong outpouring of support that will help me to win this race and serve the incredible people of the 18th Congressional District,” said Edwards. “We are at a critical juncture in our nation’s trajectory, and we need to send servant leaders to Congress who can deliver the results the community deserves. The strong support from our supporters will help us to cultivate an 18th Congressional District where everyone in it can thrive.” Edwards said. “Amanda understands the challenges that the hard-working folks of the 18th Congressional District face because she has never lost sight of who she is or where she comes from; she was born and raised right here in the 18th Congressional District of Houston,” said Kathryn McNiel, spokesperson for Edwards’ campaign. Edwards has been endorsed by Higher Heights PAC, Collective PAC, Krimson PAC, and the Brady PAC. She has also been supported by Beto O’Rourke, among many others. About Amanda: Amanda is a native Houstonian, attorney and former At-Large Houston City Council Member. Amanda is a graduate of Eisenhower High School in Aldine ISD. Edwards earned a B.A. from Emory University and a J.D. from Harvard Law School. Edwards practiced law at Vinson & Elkins LLP and Bracewell LLP before entering public service. Edwards is a life-long member of St. Monica Catholic Church in Acres Homes. For more information, please visit www.edwardsforhouston.com
As September 13th rolls around, we extend our warmest birthday wishes to the creative powerhouse, Tyler Perry, a man whose indomitable spirit and groundbreaking work have left an indelible mark on the world of entertainment. With his multifaceted talents as an actor, playwright, screenwriter, producer, and director, Tyler Perry has not only entertained but also inspired audiences worldwide, particularly within the African-American community, where his influence and role have been nothing short of powerful. Born in New Orleans, Louisiana, in 1969, Tyler Perry’s journey to stardom was a path riddled with adversity. Raised in a turbulent household, he found refuge in writing, using it as a therapeutic outlet. This period of introspection gave rise to one of his most iconic creations, Madea, a vivacious, no-nonsense grandmother who would later become a beloved figure in Perry’s works, offering a unique blend of humor and profound life lessons. Despite facing numerous challenges, including rejection and financial struggles, Perry’s determination and unwavering belief in his abilities propelled him forward. In 1992, he staged his first play, “I Know I’ve Been Changed,” which, although met with limited success, was a pivotal moment in his career. Unfazed by initial setbacks, Perry continued to hone his craft, and by 1998, he had successfully produced a string of stage plays that showcased his storytelling prowess.
Calling all teenage student-athletes! If you have dreams of playing college soccer and wish to represent an HBCU, the HBCU ID Camp is your golden opportunity. From 8 am to 5 pm on November 11-12, Houston Sports Park will transform into a hub for aspiring male and female soccer players. Coaches from HBCUs across the nation will be present to evaluate, scout, and offer valuable feedback. Moreover, they might even spot the next soccer prodigy to join their collegiate soccer programs. This camp is not just about honing your soccer skills but also a chance to connect with the HBCU soccer community. You’ll learn the ins and outs of what it takes to excel on the field and in the classroom, which is crucial for a college athlete. The HBCU ID Camp is an excellent platform to network with coaches, learn from experienced athletes, and take the first steps toward your college soccer journey. To secure your spot at this incredible event, don’t forget to register [here](insert registration link). Space is limited to 120 participants, so make sure to reserve your place before it’s too late. It’s time to turn your dreams of playing college soccer into a reality.
