Couple reaches for help in time of need

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December 5, 2009

BY MARY WICOFF The Commercial-News Sat Dec 05, 2009, 09:44 PM CST

CAYUGA, Ind. — Health — and money — problems continue to plague the Glenn Barker family of Cayuga.

Last year, Barker, 48, underwent brain surgery at Indiana University Hospital to remove part of a tumor that was pressing on his motor and optical nerves on his right eye.

The surgery was successful; however, Barker still has pain from nerve damage and scar tissue. He’s waiting to hear when another surgery can be scheduled, possibly this month.

He has medical coverage, but he’s been denied disability because he doesn’t have enough work credits, he said. The couple is living on Candy’s disability.

And, to make matters worse, their best mode of transportation — a 2005 Pontiac — needs work. They’ve been taking the 1995 Dodge truck to doctors’ appointments in Terre Haute and Indianapolis, but its windshield wipers aren’t working and it uses more gas.

They didn’t go anywhere for Thanksgiving due to transportation and health problems, but they hope things will be looking up for Christmas.

In the meantime, Barker doesn’t know where to turn, except to ask people to help — something that’s difficult for him to do.

“I hate asking, but we have to do something,” he said. In fact, before his health problems, he was always the one to help others.

“He’s the one to give the shirt off his back if he could,” Candy said.

“I’ve never had to ask for money,” said Barker, who has always worked at various jobs.

Candy worked at Walgreens Accounting for almost 20 years, but a car accident in 1992 left her with back problems. She also has diabetes and other health problems, including knee problems.

Barker’s problems began in June 2007, when he began having blackouts. At St. Vincent’s in Indianapolis, doctors discovered he had a 40 percent heart blockage, and later, an MRI discovered the brain tumor.

The surgery last year helped, but he still has trouble with his right eye closing toward evening and pain on the side of his face and head.

He and Candy spend at least $100-$150 a month on 15 medications for him and 17-18 for her.

“We’re taking it day to day,” he said. “It’s hard to stretch out (the money.)”

The Newport (Ind.) Lions Club and the First United Methodist Church in Clinton, Ind., have helped the couple in the past.

The Barkers hope they can get donations from individuals or organizations to help cover transportation, parking fees, lodging and meals while Glenn undergoes his next surgery. In addition, donations would be used to help with the cost of medication not covered by Medicaid.

Glenn is a native of Chrisman and has lived in Danville.

TO HELP

Send donations to First Financial Bank, in care of Glenn Barker, 211 E. Curtis St., Cayuga, IN 47928.

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