I was in my freshman year of college at an undisclosed university that was not a good place for me. Nevertheless, I was having the time of my life. I thought I had the entire world in front of me. I had a taste of freedom, some great friends and like most obnoxious 18 year olds, I thought I was invincible.
My cousin has a beautiful daughter that is 19 years old, her name is Daisha. Daisha is a full-time college student. Recently, Daisha was diagnosed with a thyroid cancer.
She had her thyroid gland removed a month ago. While in the hospital she had to receive calcium chloride through her IV and the nurse blew her vein, causing a 3"x5" 3rd degree burn on her arm. She was 18 when they removed her thyroid and she turned 19 a few days later.
Although her mom is a widower that struggles to provide for her 3 kids she did the responsible thing and enrolled them in CHIP's(Childrens's Health Insurance Program). Daisha has been informed that she is going to need radiation treatments. Unfortunately, The CHIP's program policy requires them to drop children off of their plan on their 19th birthday. This means: there is no money to pay for Daisha's much needed radiation therapy. She can join a High Risk Pool with a substantial premium - but this wouldn't cover her current health need because it is pre-existing. This week the Dr. performed a skin graph to try to repair her arm. The radiation treatment will start in November.
Daisha's situation seems unjust to me. If I were to loose my job the state requires that COBRA insurance be made available to me to bridge the gap in my coverage. The State Insurance Department has a serious flaw in their legislation and is leaving kids, just starting their lives, in jeopardy. I would much rather hear our Presidential candidates discuss this than address free health care for able bodied working Americans or Joe the plumber.
My Aunt Carol has purchased some "Be Strong" type bracelets as a fund raiser for Daisha to help pay for her Radiation therapy. If you would like to purchase a bracelet for $3.00 click on the Daisha Health Fund in my blog. Please let me extend my gratitude in advance.
My Aunt is also considering starting a non-profit organization to help families in this situation. If you have experience doing this and can offer some free advice we would appreciate it greatly.
Finally, if you are savvy with insurance code in Texas and can help with these 2 questions please comment.
Who should I contact to protest the actions of CHIP's?
Where in the Texas Insurance Code can I locate the governing policies for CHIP's?
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