Disabled Connecticut residents stranded by broken elevator

STAMFORD, Conn. -- Disabled and other residents are trapped in their six-story building in Connecticut due to a broken elevator that may not be fixed for up to a month.

The Advocate of Stamford reports that the 35-year-old elevator at the Eleanor Roosevelt House in Stamford failed last week. Some residents are canceling Thanksgiving plans and medical appointments, while others have to be carried down the stairs.

Eighty-five-year-old Irene Thompson who has lived on the fifth floor for 23 years says her Thanksgiving may be delivered by volunteers. She had hoped to spend the day with a friend.

"I think this is ridiculous. I have never heard of an elevator being down for so long," Thompson told the newspaper. "I feel trapped up here."

Building manager Richard Freeman said Tuesday he is doing everything possible to fix the problem and a contractor is authorized for the work.

The delay is because a control panel system must be ordered and wiring must be custom designed.