SHOES FOR MY DISABLED BROTHER

Dear Friends-

In 2007, my younger brother, Fred, was severely disabled by a botched neck surgery. It paralyzed his arms and left him in chronic pain. It wasn't possible for him to sue for damages. His monthly Social Security disability check is roughly $1,200 - clearly not enough for anything major - like the special orthotic shoes he desperately needs now.

Fred was born with a left club foot, a deformity that took seven years to correct through surgery and a leg brace. Although that problem was resolved, ten years ago he developed serious problems with foot deformity in both feet. His old orthotic shoes are falling apart and contributed to a severe fall several years ago. Because of his paralyzed arms, he couldn't catch himself or break his fall, and he fractured bones in his arm that required extensive surgery.

Fred can't wear regular shoes. Medicare / Medicaid won't cover specialized orthotic footwear for a 72-year-old severely disabled man with major foot deformities. My sister and I appealed his case but the appeal was recently rejected. Medicare / Medicaid paid for hospitalization when his feet became badly ulcerated, and also when he fractured his arm - but when it comes to prevention, nothing.

Specialized orthotic shoes cost $2000 - $2500 That's why we're doing this medical fundraiser. Please help us get Fred the shoes he needs.