My name is Michael Brooks. I am a 71-year-old amputee. In November 2022, I had my right foot removed below the knee. Through the kindness of friends and strangers, I was able to cover my initial medical expenses for the equipment needed for my recovery. For this, I remain grateful.

Those of us who live solely on social security know all too well the pinch caused by inflation and the cuts in our Medicare benefits. The cost of certain medical equipment now exceeds the Medicare reimbursement allowance. This puts me in a tough situation. I recently lost 60 pounds. This is a good thing, but the size of my leg has changed dramatically, causing a change in the way my prosthetic socket fits. The fluctuations in my leg require an adjustable socket, which was approved by my insurance. The problem is the $2000 difference between the reimbursement amount and the actual cost, and that's above the expected 20% co-pay.

So, once again, I find myself in need of help to cover this unexpected $2000 expense.