Cancer and Ed

Hello friends, both near and distant, If you know Me, then you know that I have a difficult time asking for help, but it has come to that. Earlier this year I was diagnosed with stage IVa cancer of the head and neck. I'm in the recovery phase of "concurrent" Chemo and radiation. Given my age and otherwise "good health", my Oncologists put me through one of the more intense treatment plans available. My team of Doctors remain optimistic in our battle; especially due to the P-16 markers found in my biopsies. While the physical, mental, and emotional strain has been more than taxing; the financial burden is proving to be a much larger issue than I could have imagined.

So to the point of this whole thing...and I will try to keep this brief. I have not been able to work for most of this past year. Apparently not being able to work disqualifies one from collecting unemployment and Cancer is not a disability! Right before my diagnoses I had a very expensive dental procedure (several teeth extracted, implants placed and a bridge bolted in) that I can't pay for anymore. Not that my dentist and oral surgeon are going to take back what they have installed, but the interest on a medical loan is somewhat crippling. To accompany the dental bills, I still have a stack of insurance bills taller than my fireplace (CAT Scans, PET Scan, Biopsies, Larynoscopies, Feeding tube, blood port, etc.). I'm still trying to figure out what my previous insurance was supposed to cover, but it definitely wasn't anything to do with Cancer. They actually thought that it would have been reasonable for me to drive three hours a day, while on heavy medication, for my Chemo/Radiation sessions, and pay out of pocket upwards of $200k! Now that I am beyond broke, I have become eligible for Medicaid...This has been an immense help, but as far as records show, I am not allowed to recover until this time next year. Even with my ongoing Physical therapy, prescriptions, and medical expenses at Cristus Cancer Center covered, I can't afford any day to day living expenses(Who needs to pay rent, utilities, gas, groceries, car insurance and maintenance anyway?)...Yes even the "small stuff" is a struggle.

I do not see the possibility of climbing out of this hole without your help! My physical state is impacted by my mental and emotional state, which is impacted by my financial state. Dear friends and family, any amount that you can spare will go much farther in my recovery than you can imagine. Thank you in advance.

-Ed K.