People from across Ontario who welcomed wind turbines into their community are now coming forward with questions and concerns about disturbed living conditions and health concerns and don't know where to turn.

Some have been driven from their homes. Some can't afford to leave and just try to cope. Many of these people are re-victimized by the denial of any adverse health effects from wind companies and from disbelief expressed by far too many government and by some medical officials. Some members of the general public stand under or near a turbine for a few minutes and decide it isn't so bad - that they aren't noisy, then dismiss the victims by saying that the turbines emit no disturbing amount of noise and vibration as far as they could tell.

What they fail to experience is the turbine noise and vibration every day and night for weeks on end along with the changes in sound and vibration that accompany nightfall, changing weather and wind conditions.

"The following are symptoms of some people living in proximity to wind turbine installations as reported by Dr. N. Pierpont:

1) Sleep problems: noise or physical sensations of pulsation or pressure make it hard to go to sleep and cause frequent awakening.

2) Headaches which are increased in frequency or severity.

3) Dizziness, unsteadiness, and nausea.

4) Exhaustion, anxiety, anger, irritability, and depression.

5) Problems with concentration and learning.

6) Tinnitus (ringing in the ears)."

Chronic sleep disturbance is the most common symptom. Exhaustion, mood problems, and problems with concentration and learning are outcomes of poor sleep.

VOW, Victims of Wind, is a support group recently formed for those people. In less than one month over 40 people have joined.

This province needs epidemiologic studies to determine the extent of harm being imposed on rural communities by industrial wind turbines. This majority McGuinty liberal government must stop the rush of sprawling construction of new projects until they begin to understand the adverse effects from existing operating turbines on Ontario's residents. The health of our neighbours needs to take precedence over the profits of the wind industry.

If you, or anyone you know is having difficulty, please call toll free 1-888-700-5655 or email vow2help@gmail.com

Lorrie Gillis

Grey Highlands