“He who oppresses the poor shows contempt for their Maker, but whoever is kind to the needy honors God.” – Proverbs 14:31
Six months ago, the Lord brought a special lady across my path. Those of you who have followed the story of Georgia have grown to love her as I do. I’m writing on behalf of my dear friend. Let me fill you in….
A few weeks ago, Georgia fell and hit her head while walking around town. The two young ladies that found her lying on the sidewalk called the police, who then called an ambulance to take her to the hospital. When I found out what happened a few days later, I was relieved because Georgia was safe. She was also receiving medical care, eating well, and resting better at night.
Since Georgia was admitted, I’ve visited her every Tuesday and on some Saturdays. We’ve talked many times on the phone. However, after a four-week stay, Georgia is ready to go home, and I don’t blame her. Being confined to a small wing of the hospital is torture for someone who is used to walking several miles each day. The lack of freedom is killing her. She longs to be outside in the sunshine. She misses her animals. One month is far too long.
Georgia can’t leave, though, because the hospital feels that she needs to be placed in a nursing home or assisted living facility. In their opinion, she isn’t capable of living alone any longer, and, therefore, won’t release her. Although I understand and agree with their position, I’m frustrated at the lack of action on their part. The hospital staff may think they have Georgia’s best interest in mind, but I believe they’re doing greater harm by keeping her in this holding pattern.
Unfortunately, I have no power to intervene. Believe me, I’ve tried. The nurses, social workers, and aides won’t give me any information because I’m not a family member nor do I have the power of attorney. I’m incredibly frustrated at this point, but I trust that God has placed Georgia in my life for such a time as this. He is at work!
Tomorrow I plan to contact the legal authorities to see what can be done to rescue her from this situation. Although Georgia does have a sister in New York (whom I am frequently in contact with), she needs someone local to fight for her.
Please pray for God to open doors and to show Justin and me what to do. I’m not sure what route He wants us to take. One thing I do know, though, is that God cares deeply for Georgia. That’s obvious because when everyone else in the world had forgotten about Georgia, He brought her into our lives.
Thank you for your faithfulness to pray.