Getting our friend back on his feet

This past February our friend, former co-worker, and classmate Brian Allen was diagnosed with lymphedema (read about it here: https://en.wikipedia.org/wiki/Lymphedema ). Unfortunately it has happened during a transition where he carries no health insurance.  Although there is no cure for lymphedema, there are treatment options and some are fairly successful in helping sufferers have a better quality of life.  To those who have seen Brian recently you've probably been able to tell that he is a bit smaller than we're used to seeing him.  That's because he's lost over 130lbs .  It's all in the upper half of his body because the lyphedema swelling has struck the lower half of his body (legs, waist)so far.  However, this disease causes many other problems to occur such a skin infections, high levels of protein secreted via urine (kidney), and cholesterol levels to go well below normal. There is a treatment clinic at the Gwinnett Medical Center in Lawrenceville.  If he's approved for treatment he will have to commute there 3-4 days per week (80 miles round trip).  Hopefully he will be able to get health coverage at a lower cost during the next open enrollment period.   Because of the enormous swelling lymphedema causes, Brian has very poor balance and tasks like walking and driving a car can be challenging.  Brian is unable to get disability at this current time and as much as he would like to go work full time where benefits are provided,  he's not physically able right now.  As some of you may know, when you don't carry health insurance and you're self-pay at a doctors office, payment must be made when you show up and the fees can be quite expensive.  Some of you know that Brian started Allen Admissions Consulting last fall to help students get into college, graduate, and professional school.   This is Brian's only source of income and we hope business will grow enough to where it can cover his needs.  He's great at what he does and we hope one day more people with children will see the value of his services.  In the meantime Brian has continuing medical and prescription expenses that he's unable to handle with his current condition and income.   To those of us that know Brian, he is a kind, caring person that thrives off watching others succeed.   Let's assist Brian in his time of need as we want Brian to know that we're proud of him and support him as well.  

Thank You,
Cindy
[email redacted]