9-2-08
A Message of Support to Victims of Hurricane Gustav From AOTA President Penelope Moyers Cleveland
Dear Colleagues,
We are very thankful that Hurricane Gustav did not have as catastrophic effect on the Gulf Coast area as predicted. However, we do realize that it caused severe disruption to your lives through the need to evacuate, and the possibility of facing storm damage when you return. Hopefully, you were able to leave well before the hurricane struck so that you did not experience the level of anxiety you faced prior to Katrina.
Now that it is over, we are also hopeful that you and your families will be allowed to return to your homes and resume your daily activities as quickly as possible.
We have been in contact with the Louisiana state association and will continue to follow up with them. We have spoken with the American Red Cross as well and urge you to go to their Web site at http://www.redcross.org/ for information and help if you need assistance or wish to volunteer your services.
We have also heard from the Centers for Medicare and Medicaid Services (CMS) with a message to pass on to you and a helpful link that provides important information (see below). In the days ahead, please know that you have the continuing support of your colleagues from across the country and all of your AOTA leaders, staff, and members.
Penny
Notice from CMS (Centers for Medicare and Medicaid Services)
A State of Emergency has been declared by the President and the Secretary of Health and Human Services as a result of Hurricane Gustav in Louisiana and Texas as of August 27, 2008, August 28, 2008 in Mississippi, and August 29, 2008 in Alabama. Their Hurricane Information Web site provides answers your questions about waivers and modifications that apply during the State of Emergency.