DEAR ABBY: After reading "Missing Mom in Minneapolis," about the sister who submitted a $10,000 bill to her mother's estate for services rendered, I was compelled to write.
I once worked for a private home health-care agency in Maryland, doing all of their billing and payroll. I understand matters of money are difficult, especially when a family member dies.
The sister who was not asked to care for their mother, but did so anyway, probably wasn't offered any help either. Had their mother had to pay for those services (24 hours/365 days/five years), the costs would have totaled about $265,000.
That family not only got a terrific deal financially, but I'm sure the mother appreciated having a family member look after her when she needed it most. -- NAVY WIFE LIVING IN JAPAN
DEAR NAVY WIFE: I agree.
P.S. Your figures are astonishing!