what was going on in
the long time period between
my diagnosis and my surgery.
READY . . .
At the time of my diagnosis,
I was a sole proprietor with a small business,
residing in New York,
making less than a certain annual income
(I think the limit was $20,000 per year.)
These were the main critiera for my eligibility for the program.
Go to their web page to learn more.
I am extremely grateful to them for all the help they have given me,
and for paying all the very large bills that were due from
my surgery and hospitalization.
After we had gotten several opinions from various neurosurgeons
on the complexity of my tumor resection (operation to remove the tumor),
our research indicated the best place to get surgery was at a brain tumor center. We looked at many and decided on
Duke University Medical Center and Dr. Allan Friedman.
I had to go through an appeals process with MVP to go "out of plan".
Meaning ordinarily they would not cover medical expenses outside
their HMO physicians and facilities.
We had to build a case for why it was medically necessary for me to go to Duke.
It wasn't easy but with the help of many people, doctors and neurologists we got the documentation and letters together to make a case for my going to Duke and presented our reasons to the MVP Review Board.
This was our second appeal and we were approved.
It was one of the highlights of this whole adventure.
Persistence paid off.
Many Thanks to all involved with that effort ! ! ! !
Health Care
my leg felt better.
The angiogram was on Nov 20, 2003 (the day after my tumor
was discovered by MRI).
I tried to stay active.
My goal was to go into surgery in
as good as shape as possible because I knew that would make my recovery better. Getting fresh air and oxygen into the body is essential for wellness.
Soon after my diagnosis, I was put on a drug called decadron. This allievated the hydrocephalus (brain swelling) which made me feel better. The drug is a cordicosteriod - which are known to boost energy and "feelings of well-being" as well as increase appetite.
However, the drug is bad for connective tissues like ligaments. I noticed I was having some pain in my knees. So exercise sessions like this snowshoeing were kept within moderation.
January 2003
