I still could use some help. My OTC drugs were $175 in June.

Hello,

I’m John D Morton. If you don’t know me in 1972 I founded of the proto-punk band, ’the electric eels,’ and other musical… stuff. I am an internationally exhibiting visual artist, a multi-instrumentalist, a poet, and writer.

I am 71 (at least till 03/27/25!!) and in poor health. I have progressive neuropathy which really grinds down my mobility and balance, arthritis, and… well isn’t that enough??

I am also suffering from current psychiatric issues. Bipolar, c-PTSD, insomnia, hyper vigilance, suicidal ideation, hypomania, depersonalization. I have TRD which means psychotropic medications do not work except for negative side effects. I was prescribed REXULTI® which only gave me Tardive Dyskinesia and… again, isn’t that enough?

I throw everything I can think of to help remedy these merciless comorbidities! (All the stuff Dr. Google recommended! (I actually go to the Mayo Clinic web page!)) I am compliant with my many daily prescriptions. I practice Yoga and meditation and I am studying Buddhism. I ride my bike, and go for walks on the beach. I am receiving EMDR and rTMS treatments for the c-PTSD and depersonalization.

I am indeed suffering, but that is O.K. It is what I have. There is a zen precept that states there is always someone worse off than you. Yeah, I get that.

I get many wonderful medical benefits from being a Permanent Resident of Ontario, Canada. (And my doctor is extraordinary with the care she gives me.) My partner’s employer grants insurance perks for her and consequently me as her spouse. And my spouse is very gracious and supportive. I am very lucky in that regard.

My weekly EMDR is covered at 80% which is $170 a pop. I need to purchase a TENs machine for $500 for my neuropathy pain which will with the insurance end up being $100 out of pocket. So regardless of the assistance that is proffered to me, my $s are having a bit of trouble breathing.

I spend $35 a month on prescriptions. I spend about $75 a month on over the counter drugs, Allegra D, Vitamins A and D., and eye drops etc.

My only income is from my monthly Social Security Retirement Benefit check of $762.00 (until at least Trump takes it!)

I am luckily (for the nonce) still able to make art, play music, pen write literature, haiku, and tanka.

I really did not want to mount a fundraiser, but I could not see many alternatives. The royalties from my haiku book are not as much as I had thought (I am joking!)

However, if I raise anywhere near my “ask” it will enable to cover my economic shortfalls for a couple years at the very least.

So yes I am indeed suffering but I am also grateful and happy!

Thank you.

John D Morton