Tracy Thom is one in a million. She was a selfless
advocate for 82-year-old Jean Schaefer, a victim of elder-
fraud and exploitation, living in Ottawa County. Tracy isn’t
a cop, a lawyer, an accountant, or an investigator, but she
developed all of these skills, over three years, on her own
time and on her own dime. She did this for one reason.
She wanted to help, when no one else would.
“Before she came to me, Jean had already asked three
other friends to help her. All three turned her down. All said
they didn’t want to get in the middle,” Tracy explained.
This is a common barrier in reporting suspected financial
elder abuse.
Initially, Tracy was reluctant to get involved. Her family
didn’t want her drawn into this, either. She said, “I was very
hesitant. My family was upset, but I had to help her. There
was no way that she could have physically or emotionally
done all that I did.”
It was because of Tracy that Jean’s theft/exploitation
was reported to the police. When the prosecutor told his
detective not to spend any more time on the case, Tracy
dug up more evidence and contacted the Ohio Attorney
General and his Elder Abuse Advocate. Tracy’s work
resulted in a detective from the Ohio Bureau of Criminal
Investigation being assigned to Jean’s case and the
criminals pleading guilty to felony fraud charges.
Had it not been for Tracy, Iris Stephenson and Hugh
Stephenson would have never pled guilty. Unfortunately,
they had to serve no prison time, but both were ordered to
pay restitution.
Jean’s health has deteriorated
significantly due to this awful
ordeal.
Tracy hopes this article
encourages others to “step up
and help someone… If you see
something, say something.” In
the case of Jean, others were
aware of what happened. No
one stepped up, except Tracy.
Serving Our Seniors applauds Tracy Thom for her
unselfishness, courage and determination. Thank
you, Tracy!
Tracy Thom:
She Stepped Up
By Sue Daugherty
17
800-564-1856 419-624-1856
Free To You…
Thanks to an Anonymous Donor
Serving Our Seniors was given hundreds of packages of
disposable undergarments; and disposable pads to place
on mattresses when sleeping. On average, a consumer
will spend $20.00/package for these products. Using the
honor system, Serving Our Seniors is giving these products
to Erie County residents, ages 60+, who struggle to afford
purchasing them.
Stop by Serving Our Seniors office at
310 E. Boalt Street – Sandusky.
Used with permission
