I am 73 years of age. I have a low immune system in which I have been receiving a 4 hour IVIG infusion at The University of Utah Hospital and The U of U Sugarhouse Clinic, once a month for the past 9 years. Its to build up my immune system again each month.

My medical coverage is Medicare part A and B and an AARP Medicare supplement from United Healthcare with 100% coverage. I had received this 100% coverage before AARP discontinued it. Those who already had it, like me, get to keep it. With my current coverage, I have the freedom to pick my doctors and get to choose where to go for my medical needs. If I'm on Medicaid, the decisions would not be mine to make; someone else would make my decisions for me. My freedom of choice would then be lost. There are too many restrictions and red-tape from government funded Medicaid. After help with much research from Team Nash, I've found that there is "for sure" a big difference between Medicare "with freedom of choice" and Medicaid "with restrictions". I wish to make my own choices with the 100% coverage.

My premiums have been rising gradually from year to year. This year, my premium with United Healthcare jumped to $304.21 per month. My income from Social Security and a small pension is $699.86 per month. Also this year, I've been selling framed prints of my artwork that I had done. I recently had a harder time selling the prints. The utility bills have been increasing. The checking account became over-drawn in August and September, but now is OK with help from the GoFundMe along with Utah Community Action now paying the gas and electric bills in September, October, and November. Now our government cut off those funds. I will need to keep paying the bills and premiums; this is where the donations from GoFundMe would really help out a lot.

I also have other expenses coming up; such as property taxes with my abatement, a new shower which would be safer to use, the materials needed to do work on my house, and do up keep my car. Note: There would also be red tape and restrictions from state finance help and funds. The next item is being able to afford healthy foods such as fresh fish, fruits, and vegetables along with vitamins and natural herbs to help restore my health.

I have been walking and exercising as well as reading, studying, and memorizing to exercise my mind. I am now putting together an intense program on exercise and diet to help me have the health needed to accomplish my goals. I feel strongly that fulfilling my wishes would help me heal, have better health, and live longer. My doctors and medical staff have all been telling me that I'm doing a lot better than expected. I am doing better, I am determined.

I am asking those who could help to please consider donating to my GoFundMe. Your donations would really help me and make a difference in my life and recovery. I appreciate those who gave me a chance and read my situation; thank you. Thank you very much to those who donate, you will be blessed.

Sincerely,

Jon E. Liljenquist