Cancer Treatment In IL

With a heavy yet hopeful heart I’ve decided to finally ask for help.

Last year my corporate lifestyle became too difficult to manage. Surprisingly the stage 4 Ovarian Cancer I’ve been battling since 2021 is considered a pre existing condition. Because of this I was denied long term disability through my employer. Suddenly I couldn’t afford the massive amount of insurance I needed to continue treatment. Unfortunately I went without care for way too long. Income requirements for medicaid are disgustingly low so I also have not been able to work a traditional job in hopes of receiving healthcare assistance. During that time I worked so hard to create a low stress environment for myself that requires little overhead. I’ve been able to proudly and happily make ends meet so far. And now after a long battle I was FINALLY approved for medicaid in the state of Illinois where I spend my summers.

Recently a CT scan discovered new “issues” that need immediate attention. It’s become clear that I have to unexpectedly stay in Illinois during the winter and keep fighting this thing. Unfortunately my current living situation is seasonal and my beloved RV is not suitable for the winter especially during treatment. Still unable to work and no other source of income here during the winter… I am now scrambling to find the means to stay. I had no plan for this.

I’m in the grueling process of applying for disability, social security and other resources but this will take months. I need suitable housing, the means to travel to all of my appointments and pay the few bills I have, essentials etc. It all adds up to so much and I’m admitting to being overwhelmed and out of options at this point. But most importantly I’m running out of the time I need to be proactive instead of reactive.

If I could work for it I would. If I could ignore it I would. But I can’t.

All things considered… I feel great. I’ve gotten stronger than ever after creating this happy little life for myself. My future is so bright here and full of opportunities for next year. However the systematic financial ruin that can come with a cancer diagnosis is my biggest challenge. I could use some help getting over this unexpected bump in the road.

With so much love and gratitude, thank you for your support.

E