I'm new to this particular condition, but not new to disability. I'm a multiply disabled man, and I've been paraplegic since being hit by a truck over twenty years ago. That situation should have ensured that I'd at least have medical bills relating to my spinal injuries covered, but through the helpful efforts of incompetent lawyers, I lost almost every resource I might have had. I live solely on what I receive from SSI Disability, and because of tax problems stemming from my divorce several years ago, the IRS takes quite a sizeable chunk of that. All in all, I get close to $1000 a month, and my rental, food, and medical costs eat every penny.
When I was diagnosed with lymphededema, I was told that I would need to obtain short-stretch bandages and other supplies, and that I'd need these for the rest of my life. It looks like two sets of bandages alone (8 10cm & 4 8cm), for my two legs (so I have a pair to wear while the other is drying from the wash), will cost over $100, and then I'll need thigh high compression stockings over those, etc. I just met with a therapist this morning, and she was very helpful and gave me a lot of information and hope, but there's no point in starting any therapy until I can find a way to obtain the bandages, at the very least.
Frankly, I have no idea where I'm going to find the money. I have no supplemental insurance, and no social resources, such as a church or temple benevolent organization, to help me. I am totally on my own, and living under the poverty level. I don't know where to turn.
The therapist told me to write to this group, and ask if anyone knew if there were any coupons or other resources available from any of the various companies that people here use.
Does anyone have any suggestions?
Peace and Blessings!
