Letter: Disabled are people too
To the Editor:
An open letter to the mayor and city council —
I was in Peabody a while back for the funeral of a member of our family. I am in a wheelchair.
I wasn't worried because all funeral homes are equipped with wheelchair ramps or are otherwise wheelchair accessible. Only I found there is no way to get into the place.
Several men, whom I really appreciate, lifted the chair into and out of the funeral home.
So we go to the church for a family and friend lunch and gathering. I was so disappointed that I couldn't even join everybody because it was down a flight of stairs and not wheelchair accessible. Why?
The park is for everyone and it's a very beautiful park. We have our family reunion there every year. But it is so hard to get my wheelchair to the tables and I have to sit in one spot. Getting to the tables isn't wheelchair accessible. It is probably the nicest park for kids to play in the state.
So Peabody, when are you going to live in this century instead of the last one?
People should not have to stay away from funerals or be denied church services because of a disability.
I have a power chair for around Council Grove. There isn't anywhere I go that I can't get in or out of. The curbs all have ramps to get up. The churches have wheelchair ramps or elevators to get in.
What do you do with disabled people — lock them in their houses?
I always wanted to retire in Peabody.
I was born and raised in and close to town. I thought it was the perfect place. But I certainly wouldn't want to now.
To the guys who helped me into the funeral home — thanks guys. I really, really appreciated it. Because, otherwise I would have had to sit outside by myself. Thank you for listening to me.
Peggy Baker
Council Grove
