Couple thrilled with new handicap ramp

NAUGATUCK, Conn. (WTNH) -- A couple's fight to get a wheelchair ramp installed outside their home is finally over. The Naugatuck couple's property owner turned down their initial plan for a ramp so News 8 pushed for answers and they now have just what they've been waiting for.

It certainly wasn't easy getting something as simple as a ramp. The property owner didn't like the lay out, the neighbor wouldn't move up her parking spot but after our story aired several agencied got involved and everyone is happy now.

This is not how we're used to seeing Don Paul, walking out of his home and smiling. For the last month, it's been tears and frustration.

"Thank you very much Channel 8 News. Thank you very much Erin," said Don.

"It is my pleasure, Bryan's pleasure, Robin's pleasure," said News 8's Erin Logan.

The Paul's reached out to us after paying Bryan Collins, of Collins Medical Equipment about four thousand dollars to put a ramp in but the property owner told them no.

"Connecticut Commission on Human Rights Robin Trepanner, she really stepped in and got everyone involved. Met with us, met with the lawyers of this complex, and came up with a solution," said Bryan Collins of Collins Medical Equipment.

"At one point, did you think this is not looking good," asked News 8's Erin Logan.

"Yeah, I did," said Collins.

Collins came up with a plan to remove their deck, remove the deck, pour the concrete slab, and order and place the remaining pieces of ramp. 
"This was a lot of work but it was for the better," said Collins.

"We couldn't go anywhere," said Robin.

It's been that way for about a year after Don had a stroke.

"He was able to get me to the car then unexpectedly he got sick and now he can't do anything," said Robin.

He tells me he's just glad to see the outdoors more often.

"It's good. Fresh air is good," said

Not only did the property owner agree to this ramp, he paid the additional three thousand dollars for the set up. Many people want to thank him including the Paul's, but he's made it clear he's done with the situation.

"So, you have to thank him on tv," asked News 8's Logan.

"Yeah. Thank you Gerry. Thank you for putting this up for us, letting us put it up 'cause it helps a lot," said Robin.