Getting Brenda Miller “back on her feet”

My friend Brenda Miller

Brenda went into the hospital in April 2019 due to a wound on the bottom of her left foot as a complication of diabetes.  On November 18, 2019 she went into the hospital again due to her foot wound not healing.   She first had surgery on her right foot and shortly thereafter, on December 7, 2019, her left foot was amputated.  In addition to being diabetic, Brenda’s body was being ravaged by an infection which required massive dosages of IV antibiotics.  She stayed in the hospital until December 18, 2019, at which time she was transferred to a rehab facility in Austin.  Upon the completion of the antibiotics she was released from rehab on January 18, 2020.

Prior to her being hospitalized, she was living in Austin with her daughter and working part time.  Her employer did not offer medical insurance and she could not afford insurance coverage & the expensive medications she needed for her diabetes; the cost of insulin ranged from $500-$1000 a month.  She had attempted to control her diabetes through diet & exercise for several years but she ultimately was not able to do so.  On December 3, 2019 she was laid off from her part time job.

She didn’t have insurance because she couldn’t afford it. She did work part time, but this employer didn’t offer medical insurance. She racked up approximately $40,000 in medical bills at this time.      

In October, she turned 60 and was able to get her small monthly pension and health insurance from her former employer State of Texas. 

When Brenda was released from rehab on January 18, 2020, she could no longer live in her apartment due to her being in a wheelchair, her apartment not being ADA compliant and the fact that she had no job.   Hence, she came to live with me in the country.   Even though she now has health insurance, she has amassed a large amount of medical bills and they are still piling up.  In addition to these bills, she is attempting to pay as many of her existing debts as possible every month. 

Brenda’s prosthetic leg is being made and she is scheduled to hopefully get it in March.  Her health insurance does not cover
100% of her prosthetic so the balance will be her responsibility, which will add to her mounting debt,  Getting the leg will be very beneficial and will restore her mobility and independence by getting out of the wheelchair that she now uses to get around, being able to drive, and hopefully become gainfully employed. 

Currently her medical bills are $64,000 and will continue to grow due to doctor visits, medical supplies, etc. 

Brenda is a wonderful person who has worked continuously since she was a teenager and raised a beautiful daughter.   Brenda is a Reiki Master and massage therapist and has provided services to many folks in Austin and hopes to be able to be able to practice these skills again.  

I would like to ask for donations of any amount and all donations will be greatly and humbly appreciated.

Thank you so much for supporting my dear wonderful friend. 

God Bless,

Cathy Willhoite