(stock image of person signing document)
A petition has been launched to help bring a Waterford man with multiple sclerosis back from a nursing home in Wexford.
The petition, called ‘Help bring David back to Waterford’ has been signed by more than 600 people on the website change.org.
“At 45 years old David is living with multiple sclerosis and currently resides in a nursing home in County Wexford, far away from his home in County Waterford,” states the organiser. “This relocation was not a choice but a necessity – no nursing home in Waterford was able to accommodate his complex care needs. This separation is causing him significant emotional distress.
“This situation is not only unfair but deeply isolating. He is a Waterford native, born and bred, and like anyone facing such vulnerable times in their life, he deserves the comfort and familiarity of his home, family, and friends.
“We recognise the challenges that nursing homes face in accommodating those with advanced care needs, but we are calling on local health authorities, nursing home administrators, and community leaders to come together to find a solution. With compassion, planning, and resources, we believe it is absolutely possible to bring him closer to his roots, to his loved ones.
“Your signature can show support for prioritising community health needs, increasing resources in Waterford for people with multiple sclerosis and in nursing homes, and recognising the human element in healthcare also bringing awareness to the amount of people with multiple sclerosis under the age of 65 living in nursing homes around Ireland.”
The petitioner said that in Ireland, there are more than 1,200 people under the age of 65 in nursing homes due to the lack of adaptable housing and appropriate accommodation for these people in Ireland.
“Stand with us to help raise awareness for these people and help bring David back to Waterford so he can be nearer to his family and friends,” added the organiser.