To the editor:

Ron Knox’s article on caregiving was extra touching.

I think readers might be interested to know that Harriet Nehring, who now requires the loving care of her husband, Earl, was not only a caregiver herself, for her father, but she also was the first executive director of Kansans for Improvement of Nursing Homes (KINH). She, along with several other Lawrence movers and shakers, began advocating in 1975 for state regulations requiring training for nursing home aides and for general improvements in the regulations for nursing home care in Kansas.

We should all be thankful for her early efforts, and I am sure her care is better because she was so devoted to the cause. KINH, now Kansas Advocates for Better Care (KABC), still exists 31 years after Harriet accepted the first directorship.

Those of us involved in continuing the consumer advocacy of KABC appreciate Harriet’s initial efforts and direction, and are now honored to have Earl Nehring on our board of directors. Many boomers who now are struggling with caregiving issues with their parents might want to be become advocates for better nursing home care to help assure improved conditions when they themselves become “the cared for.” Thank you for addressing this important issue.

Barbara J. Braa,

KABC board president,

Lawrence