The pain of Aspergers
■ I’m not sure what steps Leanne has taken but as a parent of an Asperger child we have no issues. She is in high school and they have a counsellor who is magic.
My stepdaughter is doing better at this school than she was doing at a Catholic school.
The Asperger association is there for support as well.
Colin Gibbons via web
Re: Council moves on access problems
■ Congratulations to Cr Matthew Kirwan and Greater Dandenong council for moving to investigate concerns about disability-friendly access throughout Greater Dandenong, as raised by disability advocates (Journal, June 3).
I have been acting for years for many people across Dandenong who have suffered disabilities as a result of road accidents.
Many report to me that the lack of disability-friendly access presents a significant barrier to their re-integration into the wider community, as they attempt to rebuild their lives.
The people I help and my work colleagues are glad that this important issue has been highlighted and one can only hope that his investigation translates into action to help make life better for some of the most vulnerable in our community.
Tim Dionyssopoulos Maurice Blackburn Lawyers, Dandenong
Re: Asylum seekers swamp aid centre
■ I hate to disappoint you, but our country is not being “taken over” by anyone. Asylum seekers are just that, asylum seekers. The word “illegal” does not come into the equation. They are not opportunists and we definitely shouldn’t be sending them home.
What we need is a change in government policy. I think a bipartisan approach is needed.
It is not about “us and them”. However, it does involve basic human rights. We are all in this together, and we should stop the nitpicking and be prepared to welcome and help those who are less fortunate.
Patsy Horne Dandenong
Help after A Fall
■ Dandenong Plaza has a number of uneven bricks and I tripped and fell on Thursday, June 6, bruising my knees, hands and my ribcage.
I am a World War II veteran and in fairly good shape for my age, but as I lay on the ground, a number of men and women came to my aid. I want to say thank you to all of them most sincerely, particularly the young lady who asked me if she should call an ambulance and who gave me a glass of water.
It is nice to see that among the horror stories that make news, the milk of human kindness still flows.
Fred Menzies Dandenong North
Salvos support appreciated
■ I write on behalf of the Salvation Army to thank your readers for supporting this year’s Red Shield Appeal. People have been very generous and tens of thousands of volunteers in Australia were collectors for our appeal. On the doorknock weekend, we raised more than $6 million and we are confident of reaching our Australia-wide target of $10.2 million.
There is still time to donate to the appeal and anyone can do so by calling 13 SALVOS (13 72 58) or visiting salvationarmy.org.au.
This support is critical to the Salvation Army and helps us to carry out our vital work.
Major Neil Venables Salvation Army
