Hello Jenny,

Sorry to read about the pain that you are having. I commend you highly for taking care of your disabled niece. I applaud you for doing so.

You did the right thing by having the MRIs taken. That is a most important first step. Thank goodness your PA is recommending that you see a neurosurgeon. That in my opinion is the next important step.

Jenny, I can understand that the $300 for you at this time is money you do not have. However, my concern is that if you wait the "cost" to you both physically and financially may be substantially greater. Can you talk with the neurosurgeon and work out some acceptable financing plan? It would be worth a try. Tell him/her of your situation and hopefully they will be understanding.

Also, is there some way you may qualify for Medicaid? Or perhaps call your county medical board and ask them if they can recommend some options so that you can see the recommended neurosurgeon.

I wish you and your family the very best. Please do let us know how things go for you.

RichT

Dear Jenny,
I certainly can relate to your situation. I am trying to work something out so I can have surgery on my herniated L4-L5. The pain got so bad that I have had to quit my job as a legal assistant. The only income is my husband's disability. The neurosurgeon did reduce my initial visit to Medicare allowable amount since my ins does not cover Dr's visits. I have spoken to the hospital and they feel that I qualify for charity reduction. I have found if you explain your situation, most places are willing to work something out. I am 52 years old and have held a job for 33 of those years. I have applied for SSD but have not gotten a decision yet. The lawyer I worked for here in VA
specialized in SS and SSI. Contact someone to see if you quailfy since you are taking care of a mental challenged individual. I know things differ from state to state but you definately qualify in VA. My prayers are with you.

Thanks for the info. Someone else told me I should check with SS since I take care of our niece and see if they can help me so I'll be doing that tomorrow. The hospital will work with me about their part of the bill but the doctor won't. I'll let yall know if they'll help or whether I have to keep looking. A big thank you for the prayers....I fully believe that will help too!!