Couple finally gets handicap ramp

NAUGATUCK, Conn. (WTNH) -- A Naugatuck husband and wife, both in wheelchairs, asked for News 8's help when their landlord was giving them a hard time about putting in a ramp outside their mobile home. Now, that landlord is doing something a little extra. 

"Thank you very much," said Don Paul.

"You're welcome. Happy New Year," said News 8's Erin Logan.

But, at first there were tears, neighbors not willing to budge and a landlord who wouldn't say much. Now, a decision was made Robin and Don Paul feared wouldn't happen without a drawn out fight.

"He said don't worry about it. We'll pay for whatever we have to pay for it," said Robin.

Finally, what the Paul's feel is a fabulous deal agreed upon by the property owner and his lawyer. Yes to the ramp and yes to paying the additional costs.

"Oh, I'm ecstatic," said Robin.

The Paul's had already spent four grand on the ramp assuming there would be no issues.

Robin has been in a wheelchair for years and Don was always able to help her in and out of the home until he had a stroke in February. So, they need a ramp to leave their Naugatuck mobile home but the property owner didn't like any of the original plans.   

"You can't put it this way. You can't put it that way...you can't do it this way and we own this place," said Robin.

Since our story first aired November 30th, several agencies have been involved, including Housing and Urban Development and the Commission on Human Rights and Opportunities. Brian Collins of Collins Medical Equipment has also been calling property owner, Gerry Gendron's lawyer trying to compromise on a ramp layout plan to please everyone.

In just a matter of days, their deck will be gone, a ramp will be installed, and the Paul's say in a sense they'll be making up for lost time. They've been trapped in their home since last February and they already have some trips in mind.

"Channel 8 News," said Robin and Don.

"You're going to come visit us first," asked News 8's Logan.

"Yeah," Robin said.

"We'll give you a tour," said News 8's Logan.

"Thank you very much. Channel 8 News is great. Channel 8 thank you very much," said Don.

"He did the right thing," Robin said.

"So, you didn't get a chance to thank him yet," asked News 8's Logan.

"No. So, thank you, Gerry. I'm thanking you now," said Robin.