‘Lifeline’ to independence

CLARKS SUMMIT- Kathy Theis of Clarks Summit has many things surrounding her in her room at home, from stuffed animals and figurines to photos of her two sons displayed across from her on her wall. But perhaps of all the trinkets she may need, one holds particular importance. It is called a Lifeline pillow switch.

Theis, a Multiple Sclerosis patient, is unable to move any part of her body below her neck, and has just to shift her head to the side to activate this device to call for help in an emergency. “That was the greatest thing I’ve had,” Theis said, “I sleep better, too, at night.”

The Lifeline pillow switch, made available to her by the American Red Cross and partially funded by the Center for Independent Living, allows her immediate assistance to contact emergency services in any situation. And on January 11, when Theis’ mother needed help, Theis was glad Lifeline was there.

Her mother, Annie Sokoloski, 86, who lives in the same Laurel Woods apartment complex, fell that evening in the living room and was unable to call anyone for help. Luckily, Theis, “has great ears,” according to her caretaker of eight years, Lois Wrobel and heard the resulting noise around the corner from her room. Theis, who had only received the two-way Lifeline communicator three days prior, pushed the device with the side of her cheek and told the attendant at the other end what happened.

The pillow switch was in effect used for more than what Theis expected. “That was the greatest feeling, knowing that someone was there,” she said, “I think they’re great for people who need them. It could save your life.”

“Early intervention in a fall is best,” Cheryl Straka said, Lifeline Coordinator of the American Red Cross. “The Lifeline can be used for police and fire.”

According to Red Cross statistics, one in every three adults over the age of 65 falls each year, accounting for 25 percent of hospital stays and 40 percent of nursing home admissions.

Theis has other friends who come to the home and watch over her, including the managers of the complex Marc and Geri Moore. “They do extra things for me,” she said.

Rose Kamla, also a friend, drops by and gives Theis Communion and often, waffles with coffee. “I’m proud to have her come here,” she said.

Most of all, Theis seemed thankful for her caretaker, Wrobel. “She’s great. She’s my best friend, does a great job. She needs the job, I need the help,” said Theis.

Although Theis said she does watch television, NBC’s The Office being her favorite show, she has more fun watching the birds and squirrels which eat at the feeder outside her window. “I watch them all day. They’re better to watch than TV.”

On the day her mother fell, Theis didn’t let a disability get in her way, which may be most important to her. “I never let this get to me,” she said of her illness. “My mouth works and so does my brain.”

For more information on Lifeline products, contact the American Red Cross Lifeline Program, the Lackawanna County Chapter at 207-0118.