Proud constituent writes letter of thanks

Cindy received the following letter on February 12, 2007:

I just wanted Cindy to know how proud I am that she is my MLA. I just saw a news item regarding a family whose son had an immune system deficiency. The parents had tried every aspect of the health system to address funding for an operation that had a good chance of helping the young boy lead a relatively normal life, versus a life expectancy of less than two years. As I understood the news item the parents had run out of options in the health bureaucracy and finally had only one option left; they appealed to their MLA.

I was very surprised to learn that their MLA stepped in and made a difference in the situation, with the result that the little boy got his operation and is leading a wonderful life with his family. I was not at all surprised to learn that their MLA was Cindy Ady. I told my wife as the news item wound down that I would have to send Cindy a thank you from one of her constituents. Please pass along to Cindy my appreciation and that of my wife and our two teenage sons.

As parents we often have a difficult time explaining the antics of politicians to our young men, who have been raised on values that require honesty, accountability, self-discipline and respect for others. It is a great relief to point out to them a person such as Cindy who embodies the same values who is also truly the representative of the people.

Kim Bechtel, Calgary

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Grateful constituent writes letter of thanks

Cindy received the following letter on October 12, 2004. The author, Brett Ginter, circulated the letter to a number of media outlets and other politicians in Calgary:

Today I needed someone's help.  I turned to the bureaucracy of this country and was met with indifference. Even downright hostility.  I am talking about the Maintenance Enforcement Program that makes it very difficult for many men in this country to begin a new life.  I am not talking about my payments that are impossible to change but the many subtle irregularities that crop up unexpectedly. 

I am recently out of work.  I have to try to collect EI, which I hate to do...I hate being out of work and the amount is never enough to survive.  What I was making wasn't cutting it in the first place!  However, thanks to Alberta "Justice" and its Maintenance Enforcement Program, my EI benefits amount to 10% of what they were initially.  That is because MEP informed Federal Garnishees three years ago that I was owing money.  Well, I found it hard to make full payments at the time but I paid what I could and borrowed money in order to get up to date.   

When I received my EI benefits I found out that the MEP did not tell the Federal Garnishees that I have had an excellent record for 2 1/2 years.  They simply took the money without informing me.  When I called MEP they said they will correct this as soon as they can but not to expect results for up to seven weeks!

Where would I find the money to survive?  I have job interviews this week but can I count on getting a job that soon? 

Today I needed someone's help, and that came in the form of my MLA Cindy Ady (PC), Calgary Shaw.  She must have contacted the director in charge of the MEP because about an hour after sending a cry for help in the form of an email...I received a call from an investigator saying that he would get the message to Federal Garnishees by tomorrow...maybe even today!  

Thank you Ms. Ady...you are a terrific MLA...thank you for caring.

Brett Ginter, Calgary

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Another constituent appreciates Cindy

Cindy received the following note on April 9, 2007

I received our letter for Nicole's course exemption. It was waiting in our mail box when we returned from spring break. Thank you for helping me to get this matter taken care of quickly. Also thanks to your assistant for her help. And one more thanks for all you do for our community; your efforts and accomplishments are greatly appreciated.

Take care.

Sonja Neu