I won't be overly-dramatic and tell you how there was no Christmas tree. Or that my aunt and uncle seem to have aged 10 years in the last 2 months. I'll simply tell you that my cousin, Josh, needs a new heart.
He is now 17 years old. He was diagnosed shortly before his birthday last month. It progressed quickly from chest pain to inevitable heart transplant to a Level 2 transplant candidate in less than 2 months. This alone would be enough for ANY family or 17 year old to endure. This alone.
Yet, that's not even the worst part. While the family has insurance, they do not (like many of us) have prescription coverage. Now, you'd think that having insurance to cover a half million dollar surgery would be blessing enough. No. The doctors won't even put Josh on the transplant list. Because, the family can't "prove" that they will be able to afford the monthly medication he'll need after surgery. Now, obviously, as a parent, wouldn't you do everything you possibly could to come up with that money every month? Of course, you would. Does the hospital really think that the family wouldn't be overjoyed to receive such a gift that they would simply ignore the follow-up care? Really? So, it seems.
Josh doesn't qualify for Medicaid as my uncle makes too much money. Yet, they are not wealthy by any means. The "safety net" of supposed "health care for every child" has a big fat hole in it. I don't mean to sound like a political ad, but this is EXACTLY what's wrong with this country. Tell me how a country as wealthy and advanced as ours can let a 17 year old die. Yet, that is what will happen if he doesn't get a new heart. Soon. If they wait too long, he won't be a good candidate AT ALL.
I am asking for your prayers, your ideas, your suggestions, or your donations. I will update this blog as I get new information.
God Bless!
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oh my. I've seen health care failures first hand, but it has been with someone older, not that it made it easier. This is what is wrong with our health care, there has to be something they can do, but it sounds like their may not be time.
ReplyDeleteI do hope you get the word out. I wish him and your family all the best. If I come up with an idea I will let you know.
So sorry to hear about this.
If everyone would pass this on to everyone they can, it would be of immense help to this family. They are working diligently to obtain the needed assurances the hospital is requiring. Anything readers can offer would be of great interest.
ReplyDeleteMany thanks
This is terrible...our health care is starting to be just as bad...it was something we always took for granted ...not anymore! Good luck to your family and our prayers!
ReplyDeleteI am Josh's great aunt. Thank you for making this blog and raising awareness. Between all of us pulling together and doing everything we can, something good has to happen for Josh and family. Thanks again.
ReplyDeleteRhonda
Thank you, Rhonda! Yes, raising awareness is key.
ReplyDeletePlease, everyone, shamelessly send this to anyone you can think of. Hopefully, it'll reach a charitable organization, influential politician or ....Oprah. Whatever! Just spread the word, this is a travesty!!!
My thoughts and prayers are with Josh and his family. In my heart, I just know that with faith and prayers...anything is possible. Please pass this message to everyone you know.
ReplyDeleteJesus said unto him, If thou canst believe, all things are possible to him that believeth.
-Mark 9:23