Photo courtesy of Colton McKee

By Hayley Ferguson

AJ’s Loan Cupboard makes sure everyone has access to medical equipment

Jul 31, 2019 | 5:36 PM

Medicine Hat, AB – Ten years ago, Jeff Desjarlais and his family were searching for a way to make sure his father could spend as much time as possible at home after being diagnosed with terminal cancer.

“It was kind of his wishes and the families wishes so we could spend more time with him. So we were refereed to AJ’s Loan Cupboard for some medical equipment so we could enable that.” He said.

The Desjarlais family is just one of many that AJ’s Loan Cupboard has helped since being established in 2002.

AJ’s is a charitable society that lends out medical equipment for those who need it in the community.

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They offer everything from wheel chairs and crutches to lifts and electric beds.

President Tom Otte says one of the things that makes AJ’s such a special service is that it’s totally free.

“You just sign a paper and you can use it as long as you need it. And if you can make a donation fine if not that’s fine too.” He explained.

Not only is it free of charge, but people can get the equipment right away and for as long as they need.

“What’s nice with us is you don’t have to wait you just bring in a list of what you need. We show you, we fit you.” Otte said.

The organization relies on volunteers and donations.

Which is why Desjarlais decided to give back his time to the organization that helped his family.

Both him and Otte say it’s one of the most rewarding things they’ve done.

“You can see the comfort of your family members that need it. You can see the relief for the family that can have that family member around for a longer time so you can get to spend that extra, quality time during those difficult situations.” Desjarlais smiled.

Just this past fall, AJ’s has been able to move into a new space in the Flats. Which is six times larger then their old one.

Otte says that with the new space… they are hopeful they can expand their volunteer numbers to be able to help the community and bring comfort to as many as possible.