I’ve been feeling really encouraged this week. I had lab work Monday and called in Wednesday for the results, and was pleasantly surprised that my creatinine had gone down slightly (8.9 to 8.81). I also went to see the general surgeon who would put in the dialysis port when and if it becomes necessary. I was encouraged to find out that it won’t be as restrictive as I feared. I won’t be able to swim, but it’s a little cold for that anyways. I’m been sleeping well, and with the exception of Tuesday morning, I’ve been feeling great. Plus, tonight Chase is taking me on a date to see “The Music of Michael Jackson” in OKC.
Then I got a call from the hospital this afternoon, and the insurance problem from last week is not “going to be fine” after all. Since what we have is a sharing program, and not technically insurance, the hospital cannot count it as actual insurance. Even though they have been faithful and consistent to pay all of my bills so far, they could decide not to pay for the surgery and that is a risk that the hospital obviously cannot take. So I have two options. The first is to go on dialysis. If I do that, Medicare (along with a Medicare supplement) would cover the surgery. If I don’t go on dialysis, I will be considered “Self-pay” and need to put down an $80,000 deposit before I can receive the transplant. I am disappointed and discouraged to say the least. In addition, just before the phone call ended, I was told (for the first time) that donor testing would take 3-6 months anyway. Salt on an open wound.
One day at a time. We would appreciate your continued prayers for us as we let this news sink in. In the middle of my heartbreak, I know there is an opportunity to be thankful. Thankful for dialysis – a life-giving option, thankful for Medicare – that it pays for dialysis and the transplant (even though I don’t understand why!), and thankful for community – so that I don’t have to walk through this alone. Pray that I would set aside bitterness and frustration, and instead have a thankful heart!
For as the heavens are higher than the earth,
so are my ways higher than your ways
and my thoughts than your thoughts.
Isaiah 55:9
We're praying for you Sweet Friend - that God would continue to be your light and strength and provider.
ReplyDeletePraying for you Julie.
ReplyDeleteSending prayers your way!
ReplyDeleteJulie, We all know that God's ways are not our own. If dialysis is a way to get the surgery paid for, then praise Him for that answer! I have been praying for you not to have to go on dialysis, but this seems like an answer to that prayer! Isn't knowing for sure, part of the battle right now? At least He has given one sure answer, and for that we can thank Him. I lift you in prayer so many times during the day, and will continue to do this. I love you and Chase more than I can say.
ReplyDelete"Now the Lord of peace himself give you peace always by all means..." 2 Thess 4:16
Love you friend. So good to talk with you tonight!
ReplyDelete