[misc.handicap] Blind and disabled

Bill.Burgess@f101.n229.z1.fidonet.org (Bill Burgess) (03/16/91)

Index Number: 14043

Hello Julie and thanks for the welcome. It is always of interest to
meet both those with afflictions and of course the families as
well. With regards to the Shriners, we accept and treat both
orthapaedic and burned children in 23 hospital units in Canada,
U.S.A., and Hawaii and also accept children from other countries as
well. The primary requirements are that the child has a chance of
improvement by undergoing treatment and that the parents cannot
afford the cost of the treatment. Here in Ontario we see less
children than from the Maritimes due to our OHIP (Ontario Hospital
Ins. Plan for outsiders interest) coverage but we still find many
who need us. We never bill the parents for any of the costs
incurred which is both a blessing and hard to believe for some. A
parent may sleep in the same room as the child or be billeted out
in a nearby hotel for brief periods if required, and the atmosphere
is one unlike most other treatment centers because both parents and
children are top priority for treatment and concerns. Kids do not
miss out on schoolwork. Full time tutors run classrooms at each
unit and children are expected to contact their teachers for
assignments prior to coming to the unit for treatment. The Montreal
Unit is located directly behind Montreal General Hospital, on Pine
Street. Would be pleased to forward more by surface mail if you
wish. E-mail may be your best choice. Will close for now and
welcome any other enquiries. TTYL Bill

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