4/25/00

RE:Carla R. Sindelar & Robert J. Sindelar
Index # 93-1016
RJI # 98-0015M

Dear Honorable Justice:

I am writing this letter in support of Robert J. Sindelar's request to be granted an extension of time regarding a legal issue being brought against his daughter Carla, in the amount of $25,424.94 by a law firm here in Elmira, NY.

I have been employed by Stafkings for approximately 1 1/2 yrs. and have been Carla Sindelar’s nurse for all of that time in their home. Carla was severely injured in a MVA 10 years ago and is in a semi-comatose state. She resides at home with her father, Bob, who is her primary caregiver. Carla receives only four hours of nursing care per day, although she requires round-the-clock feedings and supervision, as she can never be left alone. This is a responsibility her father has gladly shouldered since her accident.

Being in their home for this length of time has made me privy to the many difficulties Bob has had to weather by himself. His own health is not good at times, and he has had many days when he has been unable to get any sleep. The Village of Elmira Heights in which they live has been extremely aggressive in taking his personal property on his land away from him and destroying it, rather than letting Bob sell it off and put the money away for Carla’s care. He has to contend with different nurses coming in and out of their life and, because of the care Carla requires, often has to train them to her particular needs. All of this takes time and patience. He leaves the house only for legal matters, the rest of his time is at home with his daughter.

I have personally seen the letter where Attorney Bert Ziff, who had originally started handling Carla's MVA case in 1990, took himself off the case in April 1992. His issue at the present states that he did legal work on Carla's behalf until 1996. This is interesting since her case was settled in late 1995 by another lawyer. And one has to wonder why it has taken him eight years

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to decide to sue Carla for the amount of money listed above. This girl will always have to have nursing services, whether it be at home or in a nursing facility. It is a pity that while Carla’s father has tried so hard to provide for her and her uncertain future this individual is determined to sue her for money that has been earmarked for her future care.

Bob has extensive files and documented proof of what has happened during the years since Carla’s accident. However, due to the length of time that has passed, many of his records are in boxes in storage and need to be sorted and copied.

If the Court would be willing to grant him an extension of time in which to prepare his appeal, it would be gratefully appreciated, not only by the Sindelars, but those of us caregivers who see daily what he and his daughter must endure to survive.

Respectfully yours,

Micki Stull, LPN

MS:ms