Eighty-five-year-old Edward Allen of Gilbertsville has just returned home after spending three days in the hospital for hip surgery. During his recovery, he’ll be needing a walker, a cane and a shower chair. The cost of these three items – more than $300 – would ordinarily present a hardship to Allen who is on a fixed income.
Allen, however, is in luck.Recently, Boyertown Lions Community Ambulance Service was asked by the Boyertown Lions Club to assume management of a program the Lions Club has had in place for a number of years. Under the program, community residents may borrow at no cost a variety of medical equipment, including walkers, canes, crutches, shower chairs and wheel chairs.
“A resident released from the hospital or rehab has enough to worry about,” said Ryan Billings, director of emergency medical services for Boyertown Lions Community Ambulance Services. “There are hospital bills, rehabilitation service bills, insurance premiums and all manner of other bills. Instead of shelling out money for multiple medical equipment, which could add up considerably, the service we are providing gives the residents peace of mind that the medical equipment is available to them at no cost.” He noted that, although not necessary, donations are appreciated. “The only requirement,” he added, “is that they bring it back in good condition so the next person will be able to use it.
Since Boyertown Lions Ambulance routinely deals with patients who are recently released from the hospital or rehab, Billings concluded, “it’s entirely appropriate that we should provide this service,”
For further information, contact Ryan Billings, director of EMS, at 610-367-2330 or stop by the Boyertown Lions Ambulance station at 2 East 2nd St., Boyertown.
