“Golden Opportunity”

c. 2019 Rod Ice

All rights reserved

(6-19)

Disability.

I have previously written in this space about my unexpected slide into early retirement and status as an out-of-service management veteran. A story that began when I could no longer continue my retail career at the age of 55. But more vexing than any physical ailment has been the journey toward understanding. With each new episode, I discover more about the world of those who have had life redefined by their infirmities.

My younger sister and brother paved the way for this journey, in family terms. She, having Multiple Sclerosis and he, issues with his lymphatic system. So I had some help in mapping out strategies. Yet in each case, my own version of the tale remained unique. A labored, plodding march toward daily goals set not by choice but instead, by need.

Most recently, I sought to apply for a Golden Buckeye card. A program I first encountered while working for Fisher’s Big Wheel, in the early 1980’s. I remembered that older patrons of my store would flash this trinket to receive discounts. When my sister mentioned that the program included disabled citizens like us, I was both intrigued and amused by a hint of nostalgia. But I promised to seek out an application.

A look at the Ohio Department of Aging website provided some clues:

“The Golden Buckeye program has been helping older Ohioans and other eligible adults make community connections for more than four decades. Nearly 2.5 million Ohioans are eligible for the Golden Buckeye card, including all Ohioans age 60 or older, as well as adults age 18-59 who have disabilities as defined by Social Security. The program empowers older Ohioans to become active, loyal customers who seek value and reward quality. It also supports locally owned and operated small businesses, which are vital to the character of each community.”

While searching for information, I visited the Geauga County Department on Aging website. There I discovered a page offering Medicare advice, another of my chores as a disabled person. I had just received my card from that government program after waiting two full years for coverage. Surreal to ponder, as my disability had been granted because of numerous health issues. I needed to learn more before making such health decisions.

“Medicare Answers! The Geauga Department of Aging has staff trained by the Ohio Department of Insurance ‘Ohio Senior Health Insurance Information Program’ to answer your Medicare questions. We can meet with you one on one or provide you materials throughout the year and during Medicare Open Enrollment, October until early December...”

I decided to visit their offices at 12555 Ravenwood Drive, south of Chardon.

The morning ride felt spectacular, after weeks of rain and gloom across our region. Temperatures were in the high 60’s, with a friendly breeze stirring the air. Skies overhead were blue and dotted with a few puffs of white. I was glad to get my truck on the road. When I reached the center itself, a sense of awe took hold. The facility was expansive and welcoming. A fresh architectural design. I noted a sign-in book stationed in the lobby. The couple ahead of me entered their names and time of arrival, so I did the same. Then, I searched for someone to provide assistance.

A woman at the front window looked somewhat puzzled when I asked to apply for the Golden Buckeye card, and for Medicare counseling. But she smiled with courtesy. “I am not sure that we have any of the forms here,” she said. “The person who handles that program is on her break, upstairs.”

Mentally, I prepared myself to wait. I held an envelope of materials that included my original disability award letter from Social Security, and my Medicare card.

“Let me see if I can meet her halfway,” she offered, after a pause. I nodded with gratitude. She made a call on the intercom system, then disappeared for a minute.

I took a seat in the lobby.

The receptionist returned quickly. Her mood was a bit more somber. “I am sorry sir, we do not have any of those forms. You might go down the road, to the Geauga County Library Administration building. Maybe they can help you.”

“What about Medicare advice?” I wondered out loud. “I am an AARP member and looked on the United Healthcare site. There were 10 plans listed. A bit confusing.”

The woman frowned with regret. “And those change every year! I am sorry, we can only help you if you are age 60 or older, sir. I would suggest visiting Job & Family Services. Go one direction for the library, the other for JFS.”

My eyes went wide open. “I will be 58 in September. Not really that far away.”

“Well, come back in two years then!” she cheered. “Whatever the case, have a great day!”

I left the building while musing about the taxpayer dollars that must have afforded its construction. A budget that would have been very welcome during my career as a supermarket manager. My own Medicare benefits officially began on July 1^st. Clearly, my health needs could not be ignored for over 24 months. Especially when considering that I had not been able to see a doctor since January of 2017. But I was literally close to the library building, also located on Ravenwood Drive.

A clerk at the front desk peered through her thick glasses as I explained my intentions. “You want a library card?” she said with a colorful accent.

“A Golden Buckeye card,” I repeated. “The Department on Aging could not help, despite the fact that it is a program administered by the state bureau. They suggested I try with you.”

She had to call for assistance.

A supervisor appeared after a brief interlude. She seemed determined to help. “You wanted a library card, sir?”

Once again, I repeated my desire for a Golden Buckeye card. She paged another supervisor, then called the library branch in Chardon for information.

“You can drive over there, where they have some of the forms,” she explained at last, or wait while I try to get one faxed here...”

I observed that Chardon was not far from my home in Thompson. I patted the keys in my pocket. But then, she brightened over the thought of figuring out my problem, personally.

“Wait here,” she offered. “Use our computers if you like. I’ll get this handled for you.”

Her insistence made me glad.

Before filling out the form, I had to speak with someone at the state offices, by phone. To confirm that I did not already possess a GB card. I assured the representative that this was most certainly the case. “Honestly, I can’t figure how anyone gets into this program, without receiving the privileges automatically,” I exclaimed. The fellow was not amused. Still, he confirmed my status.

My new librarian friend received the form in a jiffy. She helped me fill in the required details. “This will be useful, because my husband is also eligible,” she laughed. After being faxed, I was given the original document to use temporarily, until my official notice arrived.

“So while you are here, do you have a library card?” she said as an afterthought. I confessed that it had lapsed years ago, while living in Lake County for a period of time. Her patient assistance made me feel inspired. I signed up, once again.

My last visit of the day was to Job & Family Services. Another stop on Ravenwood Drive. Even before entering, I sensed that no enlightenment would result from the interaction. But I made the attempt.

The woman staffer looked puzzled when I inquired about Medicare counseling. “Medicaid?” she asked. “Do you need Medicaid help?”

“Medicare,” I replied. “I have been disabled for two years and have just received my card and packet from Social Security. The Geauga County Department on Again could not help me and suggested that I visit you.”

She was nearly speechless. “Umm, here is a number for a supervisor. Go to the phone over on that far wall and dial her extension.”

I followed the instructions. After making my request, there was silence on the line.

“Medicaid? You need to apply for Medicaid?” a voice chirped in my ear.

“Medicare,” I said again. “Could you provide some advice on navigating the Medicare system? The Geauga County Department on Aging sent me here today.”

There was another silent pause. “I am sorry, sir. We only handle Medicaid. I do not know why they sent you to us...”

My face went red. “No problem. I thought that might be the case. But, thank you anyway!”

The azure blue had deepened with contrast when I walked back outside. At least I had accomplished one of my tasks for the day. At home, a painting project awaited. One that would have my debilitated knees and hip howling for relief. While I soothed my hypertension with water and rest. Yet I looked forward to getting things done and enjoying the rest of my day.

The adventure had provided a golden opportunity - to celebrate being alive.

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