Medical Costs and Devices to Assist Communication
Donation protected
The past two years, it was hard for me to see myself as a survivor, but as my Voice returns I am proud to have come this far. There are times in life that we all need a little help. Whether you once knew me or are someone simply taking the time to read the below, I am grateful for you allowing me to be heard.
Domestic assault and battery changed my life.
Treatment for Major Neurocognitive Disorder due to Traumatic Brain Injury (link to medical record diagnoses list proof), severe Posttraumatic Stress Disorder, and debilitating Central Pain Syndrome means weekly appointments for Speech Therapy (link to example worksheets), Occupational Therapy, and Physical Therapy. Acquired Auditory Processing Disorder was added recently as a result of brain injury. To communicate well, I have been working with providers trying out various devices to meet my needs, but devices are not fully covered by insurance.
Strangulation resulting in a stroke, left me with constant unrelenting and excruciating burning pain on my right side known as Complex Regional Pain Syndrome II, which is made worse by touch, movement, emotions, barometric pressure and temperature changes. It hurts to even shower or get dressed. I also must wear a custom right hand and arm orthotic .
Each month I must find a way to continue monthly COBRA coverage (proof) and fund transportation to appointments. I have been homeless since September 2019 with a food stamp limit of 3-months (EBT proof with no balance). Medicaid does not cover much ongoing care or thousands of dollars in past bills.
Right now, I am staying with a friend of a friend, while criminal court is underway and am incredibly lucky to be given a break away from a shelter.
Below are some of my costs. It is difficult to ask for help, but I desperately must ask. All I am hoping is that a few of you will be willing to post this to others. It means the world to me.
Medical costs:
COBRA - $7,266 (proof)
Transportation to get care - $1,757
Posttraumatic Stress Disorder - $4,516
Neurological / device - $8,882
Auditory Processing Disorder / devices - $3,250
Orthopedic / custom right hand and arm orthotic - $3,179
Medical / COBRA future - $9,903
Service Animal - ~$8,000
If anyone surviving brain injury is involved in criminal or civil court and needs support/a peer, please reach out. I was always independent, strong, and successful. Until you live through it all, you do not understand. A new you, can be taxing and difficult, no matter your journey.
Domestic assault and battery changed my life.
Treatment for Major Neurocognitive Disorder due to Traumatic Brain Injury (link to medical record diagnoses list proof), severe Posttraumatic Stress Disorder, and debilitating Central Pain Syndrome means weekly appointments for Speech Therapy (link to example worksheets), Occupational Therapy, and Physical Therapy. Acquired Auditory Processing Disorder was added recently as a result of brain injury. To communicate well, I have been working with providers trying out various devices to meet my needs, but devices are not fully covered by insurance.
Strangulation resulting in a stroke, left me with constant unrelenting and excruciating burning pain on my right side known as Complex Regional Pain Syndrome II, which is made worse by touch, movement, emotions, barometric pressure and temperature changes. It hurts to even shower or get dressed. I also must wear a custom right hand and arm orthotic .
Each month I must find a way to continue monthly COBRA coverage (proof) and fund transportation to appointments. I have been homeless since September 2019 with a food stamp limit of 3-months (EBT proof with no balance). Medicaid does not cover much ongoing care or thousands of dollars in past bills.
Right now, I am staying with a friend of a friend, while criminal court is underway and am incredibly lucky to be given a break away from a shelter.
Below are some of my costs. It is difficult to ask for help, but I desperately must ask. All I am hoping is that a few of you will be willing to post this to others. It means the world to me.
Medical costs:
COBRA - $7,266 (proof)
Transportation to get care - $1,757
Posttraumatic Stress Disorder - $4,516
Neurological / device - $8,882
Auditory Processing Disorder / devices - $3,250
Orthopedic / custom right hand and arm orthotic - $3,179
Medical / COBRA future - $9,903
Service Animal - ~$8,000
If anyone surviving brain injury is involved in criminal or civil court and needs support/a peer, please reach out. I was always independent, strong, and successful. Until you live through it all, you do not understand. A new you, can be taxing and difficult, no matter your journey.
Organizer
Stephanie Allison Triplett
Organizer
Charlotte, NC