New to the site

[mpressinell]

I was diagnosed in 2007 with this terrible thing called crohns. I was 34 years old and had no clue what was in store for me. I had multiple flares and then on January 25th 2008 I was hospitalized for 10 days and had to have major surgery. I had my appendixs, part of my colon and 16in. of my intestines removed. I was in icu for 7 of those days and it could have went either way for me. Luckily I am still here, being a mother of 2 I would have missed out on so much. This disease has bankrupted me and still has me over a barrel trying to find affordable health care coverage. I have coverage now but my premiums have went up so much that I cant pay them and have no idea what to do. I cant afford the medicine I am on for having to pay for the insurance. If anyone has any advice it would be greatly appreciated. Thank you for allowing me to be part of your group, its really nice to have people to talk to about this without having to explain what it is.

 

[Dunbar]

Welcome. I feel for you, that is a lot to have to deal with. Check out social security assistance, you will find others from the states on the site who have gone this route. Ask questions, and feel free to share, it helps everyone.

 

[Judith]

Welcome to CrohnsForum Mpressinell. I am so happy you have joined us. This site is absolutely full of helpful and wonderful people. I am sure you will notice this quickly.

I agree with Dunbar, IBD can be disabling and you may be able to receive SSI benefits.
Check out the wiki page on [wiki=http://www.crohnsforum.com/wiki/Social-Security-Disability-Benefits]Social Security Disability Programs HERE[/wiki]. Hopefully the links can help you out.

Also, most pharmaceutical companies have programs to help you afford your medication. Some programs are really cruddy and some are excellent. It depends on the company and if they have spots left in their programs. If you have a list of your meds I can look into it for you.

I dont know if you would be interested but there is also a Clinical Trials option. These are research studies usually investigating a treatment that is not completely tested or not tested for a specific condition. Basically you are a research subject but these studies often provide the treatment free of charge or at a heavily discounted rate. Tests that go along with the study are usually paid for as well. This can vary so make sure you understand all of the fine print before entering a clinical trial. There is also some risk involved to a greater or lesser extent depending on the trial you are interested in so this is something to consider as well.

I hope you feel better and again Welcome!