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Richard Heck dies in Manila

Discussion in 'Off-Topic Forum' started by alex, Oct 12, 2015.

  1. Rye83

    Rye83 with pastrami Admin Secured Account Highly Rated Poster SC Connoisseur Veteran Army

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    I can certainly agree with that. Though having a rainy day fund can be a bit difficult when you reach that age and have a lot of medical bills stacking up and not having any family to fall back on in the US (he didn't have any kids....not sure about any living brothers or sisters). His situation was certainly not a position I would like to be in.
     
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  2. nwlivewire

    nwlivewire DI Senior Member Showcase Reviewer Blood Donor Veteran Army Navy

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    For sure.

    Many ex-pats do not have family back in their home country - or have family they have any connection with.

    This is a more common situation than one might think - whether they be elder ex-pats living abroad, or elders still living in their home countries.

    Having the "rainy day" fund - and being able to know when to pull the trigger to use it - means being able to have a serious reality check with oneself in advance of a situation occurring.

    I myself, don't like to think about this. I hope I just die in my sleep and get it over with (die) quickly.

    But I now see that it is important to think and plan ahead - just in case I end up having a slower, more drawn-out departure phase.

    Or end up dying alone.

    It's quite coincidental, but yesterday (Sunday), the NY Times came out with an article. It's lengthy - but coincides a bit to Mr. Heck's situation, and/or to other single people.

    If you have time to read this article, "The Lonely Death of George Bell", you may be surprised at what happens along the way....

    http://www.nytimes.com/2015/10/18/nyregion/dying-alone-in-new-york-city.html?_r=0

    V/R,
    nwlivewire
     
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  3. Canadianized

    Canadianized DI Member Showcase Reviewer

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    I suffer from diabetes and there are times I don't think that well. It has something to do with high levels of sugar in my blood and all the medication I take. Factor in my love for a cold pint now and then. I am fortunate because I have g/f who helps take care of me. However, I would like to travel to Canada and get a really good checkup. I have spoke with a Doctor who specializes in Diabetes and had all kinds of tests done. However, I am still not convinced I am taking all the meds I require.

    Nobody who is not feeling well wants to spend time sitting in a hospital here in the Philippines, as you usually have to endure the heat and humidity. I can understand this man wanting to return to the USA perhaps for medical attention. The problem for me returning to Canada is I no longer have family there. I would have to consider staying in a very expensive hotel for who knows how long. Any short term rentals are expensive in Canada. I also factor in the long trip back home and how I would be able to endure it.

    In addition, there is airfare to consider and the long trip back home. Airfare is high and I have seldom seen discounts for seniors and this is true with hotel accommodation. As you lose your health you make decisions that are not always in your best interest.

    Factor in Canadian policy regarding expats that stipulates once you have been away from Canadian soil for over 6 months you no longer have Canadian residency. This means that you if you return to Canada you are no eligible for medical services until you have stayed for 6 months! Not good if you require immediate medical attention!

    All of this does not excuse this man from being refused from hospital when he was in dire need. Which begs the question, how many people do they reject on a monthly basis? Here in the Philippines it all is about money. Lack of money will close doors and lots of money will open them!
     
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  4. moveingon

    moveingon DI Member

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    Look up -- Philippe Patients Bill of Rights on the internet.

    If he had family here they could sue for being turned down for lack of care.
     
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