Raising funds for lupus treatment

I'm Margaux Lancaster.

As some of you may know, I have lupus. It is something I have lived with and dealt with for most of my adult life. I've only had a few times where it ever became something that could possibly interfere with my work and my life. With being diligent, and with the proper medications, it has not been a hindrance to me and whatever I wanted to do.

Until now.

A year and a half ago my doctor informed me that there was a new lupus medication that was working wonders. He ordered it for me. Our insurance, MPIPHP, denied me. They wanted me to try a cheaper medication, which I did. This one ended up causing harm to my liver. My doctor had me stop taking it immediately. I then had to wait for my liver to get back to normal (six months) before he could put me on yet another cheaper medication.

The effects of lupus on my body are now spreading and causing more problems for me. I have been hospitalized twice due to the side effects of the meds and MPI will only pay a part of those hospital bills.

I was denied a groundbreaking medication that has had great results for people with lupus for the last five years because MPI insurance says it's "not necessary." How is my life, the quality of my life, "not necessary"?

I've paid into MPI for 33 years and, other than regular doctor visits, I've only used the insurance for one surgery (over 20 years ago).

I'm frustrated. I'm angry. I am looking into legal counsel. I am also looking into treatment outside the US.

I hate asking for help with this. It's especially hard during these times. I'm asking, though, because I want to start taking the new medication. It costs $2,917 a month. I'm hoping to raise three months worth of funds.

Again, I know how hard it's been for everyone in our industry out there.

Thank you for taking the time to read this.

Love to you all.