“The Road to Ruin” – At the Financial Crossroads – A Sundance Update

Sundanceh said:

The Mornin' After....
Such passion and compassion from you all:) Thanks so much for all of your suggestions and concerns. I will certainly consider them all. I appreciate you taking the time to express your thoughts on this issue.

I certainly did not mean to upset you all, rather my intent was to just give you an update on where I was at since my surgery and that financial health crisis issues had finally caught up to me, as they had so many of you out there. Reading your stories was truly touching and made me think of a famous cinematic line from the movie, “Jaws.”

In the scene, Brody is chumming the waters trying to attract the shark, when suddenly Jaws comes out of the water…Brody backs up and tells Quint, “We’re gonna’ need a BIGGER boat.”

Seeing all of us facing these same issues is poignant about now – and we do need a bigger boat, ‘cause there are a lot of us out there facing this mess – and it is the last thing we should have to worry about. I’ve found that whether it’s a tornado or cancer, it’s never the EVENT itself, rather, it’s the fall out and after effects, where the real battle is waged and ultimately won or lost.

Just to clarify: the 2 bills out to Collections, are the bills from DaVinci from the new hospital. Consequently, this is where my current treatment and surgeries have been done. Not paying these bills, will only lead to them denying me services in the future. And I certainly would just give them $10 a month, but they will not accept any amounts lower than I quoted yesterday, and we have escalated to the management team. So, that’s the problem there.

Bankruptcy is out of the question – the institution I work with dictates that you have to handle your finances accordingly…failure to do so…

Disability I have used when I’ve been out with surgeries. LTD only pays 60% however and I have to pay for %10 of that, so I try and keep my career afloat at all costs – we’re just dead without it – and we need her income as well.

I meet with my new onc this Friday and plan to tell him everything and see what he says and go from there. I’ll get lab done and be able to check my results via PC at home, so we’ll see how that’s going.

I can talk with the DaVinci surgeon’s PA and maybe him too, to fill him in on what’s happening – and see if I can call in a marker, if not now, then maybe in 3 months.

And I’ll talk to the producer that ran my news story here in DFW just to “test the waters” and see what comes of that. You are right, Lisa and everyone – healthcare is a hot potato right now, so the timing might be good.

Another thought: I received a PM from someone very dear to our hearts offering to pay for the procedure – how very sweet! Of course, I politely declined as I can’t rob Peter to pay Paul. But, I was floored by this person’s compassion and concern. She really wanted to help me and I hope I did not hurt her feelings by not accepting. I won’t betray her confidence, but she is a well loved person, whom we followed closely and has experienced tremendous tragedy – that’s all that I can say, if I have not already given it away.

I also received a couple more PMs with offers to contribute – even one from a guy on the Head and Neck board, because I gave him some info on DaVinci and lung tumors and how that might relate to him.

The true goodness shines through with people when we’re in distress – I was flabbergasted by people I had not really met, offering to help me out. I mean, does it really get any better than that? Talk about “paying it forward.” The Cancer World ROCKS and in a good way.

All of these offers were 100% sincere and I really hated to hurt people’s feelings, because I know when people give with both hands, from their heart, that they want to help, they want to do good. It’s a lot of what I’ve spent my time talking about on this board. To personally experience it, is a cathartic experience, and one that will stay with me for a lifetime. How does one thank someone for being the kind of person, such as this? Wow!

So, you guys really responded yesterday – I spent most of the day thinking about all that you said, and could not even sleep last night, with thoughts and tears rolling down my cheeks, thinking about all of the amazing conversations that we had yesterday and seeing everyone coming back together again, united and working for a common cause. It really was quite inspiring and very moving.

I felt the momentum building and saw the wheels spinning around in each of your minds, searching for a solution. I’m not sure if I warrant that kind of attention, but it was humbling to see everyone’s care and concern. So, thank you everyone who contributed their time and feelings – I won’t forget it or you.

I will be ok – I’m not quitting, not giving up – just pulling over to reassess the situation. Most of you know the word QUIT is not in my vocabulary. A good way to remember me is this saying, “No matter what’s happenin’, Craig’s toes are always tappin’”

And now, I wanted to say something to each of you that posted:

Lisa42:
I felt your enthusiasm yesterday, it was contagious – thank you for putting your heart and soul into your post. I will certainly contact the news station and talk to the producer. And dear Lisa, I do not have it hard as you said– your situation is much more dire than mine. Your health concerns me and you are one of our TOP PRIORITY patients right now. I see you paying out of pocket now too, and it breaks my heart. We need a great big “surgar daddy and mamma” to take care of all of us, so we can fight the fight and not the bureaucracy. Thank you for all that you said and for taking your time to worry about me, when you’ve got so much going on.

Mags:
I did not want to be the one to bust your “chemoite” mood, I’m so glad you are feeling well and in good spirits. We will find a way for sure. Thank you for stoppin’ in at the post. Texas is a big place and don’t forget about Fredericksburg….always room for one more if you cross the border, LOL:)

JayLo969:
Our first conversation yesterday…thank you for your thoughts and I’m sorry I got you teary. I like to knock on the “door to people’s hearts” – that where the LIFE is. And thank you for sending love, hope, sparks, well wishes, prayers, and good vibes my way.

ColoCan:
Thanks for your suggestion, Steve. You’ve got a good memory about me and DaVinci – just when I thought that story was “yesterday’s news.” I appreciate your support and will contact the producer at the news station.

My Chicky:
Seeing your smiling face and hearing your voice, always makes me smile. That’s just the way you are! Your passion is comforting…I know you care and you know I will get it handled. Just a “Thorn” in your Lion’s paw:)

Phillieg:
My boy, Phil. I always look forward to you stoppin’ in for a chat. Us Ol’Timers gotta’ stick together, right? I appreciate your continued support and I’ll take your sage advice and will hang in there.

Paula G:
“We gotta’ get a bigger boat.” You and JR can float along in mine until we can afford to upgrade:) Thank you for your support and tell your significant other, Howdy!

Diane:
You are too kind – thank you as well for the information and your support. To quote you, “Certainly there must be an answer for all cancer patients in true need!” I definitely concur.

Lcarper2:
LouAnn, thank you for such a generous offer – as a former bounty hunter, I’m sure tracking down the scoundrels is what you do best – if anyone gives me anymore trouble, I’ll turn ‘em over to you for due process.

Luv3jay:
Sheri, always there for me in a pinch. You amaze me, just out of lung surgery and up and posting, offering advice – there is no stopping you, honey! Me, Kim, and Harley, all say thank you for your continued support. I’m so glad you are doing better. When I grow up one day, I hope to be as strong as you are.

Greybeard64:
First, it’s very nice to meet you. I appreciate your feelings on the matter. A lot of times when I post, I don’t’ realize how many people may be out there reading it. I’m glad that you have read some of my posts and that you liked them. Type in “Sundanceh” and hit the search button and some past posts will be displayed if you ever want to read them. I’m truly sorry about your financial dilemma as well. I start to get angry when you have to begin to compromise your healthcare after so many years of heavy fighting. The system is just wired together wrong. Too many of us suffer needlessly.

GOOFYLADIE:
Cass, your compassion and concern is overwhelming to say the least. Such fire and passion in your post. I know you are genuinely concerned. I am also sorry that too are facing financial difficulties – it’s as big a disease as the cancer itself. I liked your Phoo-Phoo line. Many is the time I told Kim the same thing – we were happier when we first met and had a 450 sq. foot apartment with rented furniture. We had life experiences then and not things. Adulthood kind of sucks! I liked it better when we used to “play house.”

Kimby:
Another one of our TOP PRIORITY cases. How special it is to see you back on the board and posting with such fervor again. You are one of a kind – when they made you, they broke the mold, as the saying goes. Thank you so much for knocking on my door and posting as well. I do love your sayings – my 2 favorites are:
1. “When you are going through Hell, don’t stop – hit the gas.” From your very 1st post to
Me.
2. “Outwit.Outlast.Outplay” I watch Survivor with Kim and I’ve actually learned a lot
About human nature on that show. For my post, can we change it to:
Outwit-Outlast-OUTPAY. Hope you got a giggle from that one.

Kathleen808:
Thank you for your thoughts and support of me. I’ve found you to be very compassionate and a big support to me and so many others here. I wish all of the good things that life can offer you, **** and your daughter.

WinneyPooh:
Good vibes received, Winney. Thank you for that. Your right, in reading all of these responses, it is clear how many of us face now, or will face this terrible situation, all as a result of the outrageous prices being charged for health care. I know you have had it rough, and hope things will turn around for all of us.

Sheri22:
Thank you for your suggestion. It’s good to see you back on the board and posting. Your continued support is heartwarming. Glad you’ve got a plan that is working for you. I’ll get mine figured out in due time. Thanks for stopping by.


CanadaSue:
How are you? See, that rhymes:) You remember how long it took to get mail to you from the U.S. to Candada – I’m sure the mail is just as slow coming the other way. So, I’ll be checking the mailbox every day looking for your sparks, good mojo, and good old prayers.

SFMarie:
How sweet you are! You have always been so supportive to anything that I’ve written and I always look to see if you post. Think about you and your sister and hope for the best. I’ll keep “journeying” just for you:)

Idlehunters:
Ah, my dear Jen. You now I’m a Texan and stubborn is my middle name. I’ll never quit – I’m just taking a break till I get a handle on this thing. I will tell you that it is nice to be “wanted.” Thank you for that and for your spirited post. Tell Nicki hi:)

AnneCan:
You Canadiens are really good people, arent’ you? I find it cool that I have several friends across the border. You’ve got a good point – “Dr.DaVinci” might be able to help me out, I’ll have to check it out. You think he’s already forgotten about the guy who helped him get his certification? Who brought notoriety to his hospital? Who helped open the door for other lung patients? I’m so proud to have been a part of it and maybe he will be able to help me. Your last line of me being there for others – and now you guys being there for me, touched a soft spot in this ol’Grinch’s heart. How very sweet!

Robinvan:
We’ll find something, Rob – thank you so much for your continued support. “I’ve learned how to take a beating”, right Rob? I’ve enjoyed many of the deep discussions we’ve had in the past – I find you to be a very deep person. Don’t go a changin’.

Msccolon:
Letting out a roar sure feels better, doesn’t it, Mary. No worries though, I’ll keep the balls up in the air and will overcome this latest challenge.

Pokismom:
I felt a warm breeze sweep over me last night – it was then I realized it was the Winds of Hawaii blowing across my face making me smile. How wonderful to see you again! Pull up a chair and let’s chat awhile:) Thank you so much for all of your wonderful support. You have given me and Kim. I’m still so touched by what you did at Christmas – I told Kim then, what kind of wonderful people I’ve met…they listen and then they surprise you. You are special – keep your treatments going too – one day I’m going to wing my way to Hawaii and see all of you – Kim’s trip of a lifetime – I look forward to it.

Christinecarl:
Hello to you and so nice to meet you! Thank you for your touching words. You are so sweet –how very moving that you would want to share part of your winnings with me – the world needs more people like you in it – you’ve got a heart as BIG as Texas.
Toots:
What can I say about one of the sweetest women in the world? You and Lizzy do Carolina proud – with you gals, “I always have Carolina in my mind.” I always think back to your “France” post and it makes me smile. Seeing you on a post is like a port in the storm, you feel very comforted in the fact…I’ll always try to be there for you and everyone, if I am able.

Aud:
Thank you too for your concern. I will get a handle on this. You keep “leaving that light on for me.” That way, I’ll know how to find you:)

Crazylady:
Jamie, hello and thanks for your post. This has been a good post and has given me some insight as to how many of us are in trouble out there. We always tell each other to fight and fight on, but there’s more to it as time drags on, isn’t it?

Joy1216:
Nice to meet you too, Joy. I can feel your expressions in your post – it is not right we have to go through this part of the process. The longer it goes, the worse it gets. I will be at the hospital this week and will talk to some people.

Thready:
Thanks, Jan, for all of your suggestions! UTSW has been pretty good to me, but their billing department has not, LOL:) We’ll see what the 2 docs have to say when I can talk with them. Thank you for your continued support. Hope all is still going well for you and treatments remain tolerable. Pretty spring weather we’ve had a couple of days, huh?

K1:
I’m sorry “they” are catching up to you too. The minute I find something useful, I’ll be sure to let everyone know. Good idea getting stuff done before Cobra ends.

KS:
Patti, I’m hearing thunder claps in the background – wait a minute, it’s you. Wow, you brighten my day…seeing you suffer these past few months has made me very sad. A deep sadness…I stopped reaching out when I should have been checking in on you. Just knew you were in such pain and did not want to burden you with having to respond. Seeing the “fire in your gut” in this post, makes me feel much better. That’s my Patti – alive and spiritied, I’m just so touched by this. I know you don’t like to hear me talk like this – but after 6-years of this stuff, it’s still sometimes so much picking up the pieces. Money makes me sick and it drives this ol’ world to the extent of all else. Your words are so kind and meaningful – I thank you for thinking so much of me. I’ve always thought and think so highly of you – want so much for you to be well. I love you too – and you will always be my special “kindred spirit.” Nothing can ever change that.

Sonia32:
Sis, I hope you can see now why you must be around. I see a new Sonia in your PM – one that’s alive and one that can make a difference. If it takes me to bring you out of “lurking” that must be the reason I’m still here. Thank you for your thoughts and on your willingness to reach out and help me. Stay strong for me and I’ll get things handled here in the Lone Star State.

Well, the responses were overwhelming and heartwarming! I certainly took it all to heart. I certainly did not feel so alone yesterday or today. I’ll let you know how it all plays out. I’ve been carrying this around for nearly 3 months, and wanted to say something, but with all the tragedies we experienced, and with people needing real help, I just felt guilty about talking about this, even though I could see it coming.

This was a good post, and it bother me that we have fought so hard, and there are many of us now, and maybe many more to come, who will face this. Reading your heartfelt stories has made me realize, how we are all tied at the hip in this thing – together we stand, or united we fall.

The board is at it’s best when we come together, united in a cause, each with our own perspectives and experiences, and we can apply them to helping and supporting each other. When all of this dials in and comes together, I still believe this is one beautiful place to be. It is the Diversity and the Personality that makes this place hum and click.

-Craig

Sundanceh said:

The Mornin' After....
Such passion and compassion from you all:) Thanks so much for all of your suggestions and concerns. I will certainly consider them all. I appreciate you taking the time to express your thoughts on this issue.

I certainly did not mean to upset you all, rather my intent was to just give you an update on where I was at since my surgery and that financial health crisis issues had finally caught up to me, as they had so many of you out there. Reading your stories was truly touching and made me think of a famous cinematic line from the movie, “Jaws.”

In the scene, Brody is chumming the waters trying to attract the shark, when suddenly Jaws comes out of the water…Brody backs up and tells Quint, “We’re gonna’ need a BIGGER boat.”

Seeing all of us facing these same issues is poignant about now – and we do need a bigger boat, ‘cause there are a lot of us out there facing this mess – and it is the last thing we should have to worry about. I’ve found that whether it’s a tornado or cancer, it’s never the EVENT itself, rather, it’s the fall out and after effects, where the real battle is waged and ultimately won or lost.

Just to clarify: the 2 bills out to Collections, are the bills from DaVinci from the new hospital. Consequently, this is where my current treatment and surgeries have been done. Not paying these bills, will only lead to them denying me services in the future. And I certainly would just give them $10 a month, but they will not accept any amounts lower than I quoted yesterday, and we have escalated to the management team. So, that’s the problem there.

Bankruptcy is out of the question – the institution I work with dictates that you have to handle your finances accordingly…failure to do so…

Disability I have used when I’ve been out with surgeries. LTD only pays 60% however and I have to pay for %10 of that, so I try and keep my career afloat at all costs – we’re just dead without it – and we need her income as well.

I meet with my new onc this Friday and plan to tell him everything and see what he says and go from there. I’ll get lab done and be able to check my results via PC at home, so we’ll see how that’s going.

I can talk with the DaVinci surgeon’s PA and maybe him too, to fill him in on what’s happening – and see if I can call in a marker, if not now, then maybe in 3 months.

And I’ll talk to the producer that ran my news story here in DFW just to “test the waters” and see what comes of that. You are right, Lisa and everyone – healthcare is a hot potato right now, so the timing might be good.

Another thought: I received a PM from someone very dear to our hearts offering to pay for the procedure – how very sweet! Of course, I politely declined as I can’t rob Peter to pay Paul. But, I was floored by this person’s compassion and concern. She really wanted to help me and I hope I did not hurt her feelings by not accepting. I won’t betray her confidence, but she is a well loved person, whom we followed closely and has experienced tremendous tragedy – that’s all that I can say, if I have not already given it away.

I also received a couple more PMs with offers to contribute – even one from a guy on the Head and Neck board, because I gave him some info on DaVinci and lung tumors and how that might relate to him.

The true goodness shines through with people when we’re in distress – I was flabbergasted by people I had not really met, offering to help me out. I mean, does it really get any better than that? Talk about “paying it forward.” The Cancer World ROCKS and in a good way.

All of these offers were 100% sincere and I really hated to hurt people’s feelings, because I know when people give with both hands, from their heart, that they want to help, they want to do good. It’s a lot of what I’ve spent my time talking about on this board. To personally experience it, is a cathartic experience, and one that will stay with me for a lifetime. How does one thank someone for being the kind of person, such as this? Wow!

So, you guys really responded yesterday – I spent most of the day thinking about all that you said, and could not even sleep last night, with thoughts and tears rolling down my cheeks, thinking about all of the amazing conversations that we had yesterday and seeing everyone coming back together again, united and working for a common cause. It really was quite inspiring and very moving.

I felt the momentum building and saw the wheels spinning around in each of your minds, searching for a solution. I’m not sure if I warrant that kind of attention, but it was humbling to see everyone’s care and concern. So, thank you everyone who contributed their time and feelings – I won’t forget it or you.

I will be ok – I’m not quitting, not giving up – just pulling over to reassess the situation. Most of you know the word QUIT is not in my vocabulary. A good way to remember me is this saying, “No matter what’s happenin’, Craig’s toes are always tappin’”

And now, I wanted to say something to each of you that posted:

Lisa42:
I felt your enthusiasm yesterday, it was contagious – thank you for putting your heart and soul into your post. I will certainly contact the news station and talk to the producer. And dear Lisa, I do not have it hard as you said– your situation is much more dire than mine. Your health concerns me and you are one of our TOP PRIORITY patients right now. I see you paying out of pocket now too, and it breaks my heart. We need a great big “surgar daddy and mamma” to take care of all of us, so we can fight the fight and not the bureaucracy. Thank you for all that you said and for taking your time to worry about me, when you’ve got so much going on.

Mags:
I did not want to be the one to bust your “chemoite” mood, I’m so glad you are feeling well and in good spirits. We will find a way for sure. Thank you for stoppin’ in at the post. Texas is a big place and don’t forget about Fredericksburg….always room for one more if you cross the border, LOL:)

JayLo969:
Our first conversation yesterday…thank you for your thoughts and I’m sorry I got you teary. I like to knock on the “door to people’s hearts” – that where the LIFE is. And thank you for sending love, hope, sparks, well wishes, prayers, and good vibes my way.

ColoCan:
Thanks for your suggestion, Steve. You’ve got a good memory about me and DaVinci – just when I thought that story was “yesterday’s news.” I appreciate your support and will contact the producer at the news station.

My Chicky:
Seeing your smiling face and hearing your voice, always makes me smile. That’s just the way you are! Your passion is comforting…I know you care and you know I will get it handled. Just a “Thorn” in your Lion’s paw:)

Phillieg:
My boy, Phil. I always look forward to you stoppin’ in for a chat. Us Ol’Timers gotta’ stick together, right? I appreciate your continued support and I’ll take your sage advice and will hang in there.

Paula G:
“We gotta’ get a bigger boat.” You and JR can float along in mine until we can afford to upgrade:) Thank you for your support and tell your significant other, Howdy!

Diane:
You are too kind – thank you as well for the information and your support. To quote you, “Certainly there must be an answer for all cancer patients in true need!” I definitely concur.

Lcarper2:
LouAnn, thank you for such a generous offer – as a former bounty hunter, I’m sure tracking down the scoundrels is what you do best – if anyone gives me anymore trouble, I’ll turn ‘em over to you for due process.

Luv3jay:
Sheri, always there for me in a pinch. You amaze me, just out of lung surgery and up and posting, offering advice – there is no stopping you, honey! Me, Kim, and Harley, all say thank you for your continued support. I’m so glad you are doing better. When I grow up one day, I hope to be as strong as you are.

Greybeard64:
First, it’s very nice to meet you. I appreciate your feelings on the matter. A lot of times when I post, I don’t’ realize how many people may be out there reading it. I’m glad that you have read some of my posts and that you liked them. Type in “Sundanceh” and hit the search button and some past posts will be displayed if you ever want to read them. I’m truly sorry about your financial dilemma as well. I start to get angry when you have to begin to compromise your healthcare after so many years of heavy fighting. The system is just wired together wrong. Too many of us suffer needlessly.

GOOFYLADIE:
Cass, your compassion and concern is overwhelming to say the least. Such fire and passion in your post. I know you are genuinely concerned. I am also sorry that too are facing financial difficulties – it’s as big a disease as the cancer itself. I liked your Phoo-Phoo line. Many is the time I told Kim the same thing – we were happier when we first met and had a 450 sq. foot apartment with rented furniture. We had life experiences then and not things. Adulthood kind of sucks! I liked it better when we used to “play house.”

Kimby:
Another one of our TOP PRIORITY cases. How special it is to see you back on the board and posting with such fervor again. You are one of a kind – when they made you, they broke the mold, as the saying goes. Thank you so much for knocking on my door and posting as well. I do love your sayings – my 2 favorites are:
1. “When you are going through Hell, don’t stop – hit the gas.” From your very 1st post to
Me.
2. “Outwit.Outlast.Outplay” I watch Survivor with Kim and I’ve actually learned a lot
About human nature on that show. For my post, can we change it to:
Outwit-Outlast-OUTPAY. Hope you got a giggle from that one.

Kathleen808:
Thank you for your thoughts and support of me. I’ve found you to be very compassionate and a big support to me and so many others here. I wish all of the good things that life can offer you, **** and your daughter.

WinneyPooh:
Good vibes received, Winney. Thank you for that. Your right, in reading all of these responses, it is clear how many of us face now, or will face this terrible situation, all as a result of the outrageous prices being charged for health care. I know you have had it rough, and hope things will turn around for all of us.

Sheri22:
Thank you for your suggestion. It’s good to see you back on the board and posting. Your continued support is heartwarming. Glad you’ve got a plan that is working for you. I’ll get mine figured out in due time. Thanks for stopping by.


CanadaSue:
How are you? See, that rhymes:) You remember how long it took to get mail to you from the U.S. to Candada – I’m sure the mail is just as slow coming the other way. So, I’ll be checking the mailbox every day looking for your sparks, good mojo, and good old prayers.

SFMarie:
How sweet you are! You have always been so supportive to anything that I’ve written and I always look to see if you post. Think about you and your sister and hope for the best. I’ll keep “journeying” just for you:)

Idlehunters:
Ah, my dear Jen. You now I’m a Texan and stubborn is my middle name. I’ll never quit – I’m just taking a break till I get a handle on this thing. I will tell you that it is nice to be “wanted.” Thank you for that and for your spirited post. Tell Nicki hi:)

AnneCan:
You Canadiens are really good people, arent’ you? I find it cool that I have several friends across the border. You’ve got a good point – “Dr.DaVinci” might be able to help me out, I’ll have to check it out. You think he’s already forgotten about the guy who helped him get his certification? Who brought notoriety to his hospital? Who helped open the door for other lung patients? I’m so proud to have been a part of it and maybe he will be able to help me. Your last line of me being there for others – and now you guys being there for me, touched a soft spot in this ol’Grinch’s heart. How very sweet!

Robinvan:
We’ll find something, Rob – thank you so much for your continued support. “I’ve learned how to take a beating”, right Rob? I’ve enjoyed many of the deep discussions we’ve had in the past – I find you to be a very deep person. Don’t go a changin’.

Msccolon:
Letting out a roar sure feels better, doesn’t it, Mary. No worries though, I’ll keep the balls up in the air and will overcome this latest challenge.

Pokismom:
I felt a warm breeze sweep over me last night – it was then I realized it was the Winds of Hawaii blowing across my face making me smile. How wonderful to see you again! Pull up a chair and let’s chat awhile:) Thank you so much for all of your wonderful support. You have given me and Kim. I’m still so touched by what you did at Christmas – I told Kim then, what kind of wonderful people I’ve met…they listen and then they surprise you. You are special – keep your treatments going too – one day I’m going to wing my way to Hawaii and see all of you – Kim’s trip of a lifetime – I look forward to it.

Christinecarl:
Hello to you and so nice to meet you! Thank you for your touching words. You are so sweet –how very moving that you would want to share part of your winnings with me – the world needs more people like you in it – you’ve got a heart as BIG as Texas.
Toots:
What can I say about one of the sweetest women in the world? You and Lizzy do Carolina proud – with you gals, “I always have Carolina in my mind.” I always think back to your “France” post and it makes me smile. Seeing you on a post is like a port in the storm, you feel very comforted in the fact…I’ll always try to be there for you and everyone, if I am able.

Aud:
Thank you too for your concern. I will get a handle on this. You keep “leaving that light on for me.” That way, I’ll know how to find you:)

Crazylady:
Jamie, hello and thanks for your post. This has been a good post and has given me some insight as to how many of us are in trouble out there. We always tell each other to fight and fight on, but there’s more to it as time drags on, isn’t it?

Joy1216:
Nice to meet you too, Joy. I can feel your expressions in your post – it is not right we have to go through this part of the process. The longer it goes, the worse it gets. I will be at the hospital this week and will talk to some people.

Thready:
Thanks, Jan, for all of your suggestions! UTSW has been pretty good to me, but their billing department has not, LOL:) We’ll see what the 2 docs have to say when I can talk with them. Thank you for your continued support. Hope all is still going well for you and treatments remain tolerable. Pretty spring weather we’ve had a couple of days, huh?

K1:
I’m sorry “they” are catching up to you too. The minute I find something useful, I’ll be sure to let everyone know. Good idea getting stuff done before Cobra ends.

KS:
Patti, I’m hearing thunder claps in the background – wait a minute, it’s you. Wow, you brighten my day…seeing you suffer these past few months has made me very sad. A deep sadness…I stopped reaching out when I should have been checking in on you. Just knew you were in such pain and did not want to burden you with having to respond. Seeing the “fire in your gut” in this post, makes me feel much better. That’s my Patti – alive and spiritied, I’m just so touched by this. I know you don’t like to hear me talk like this – but after 6-years of this stuff, it’s still sometimes so much picking up the pieces. Money makes me sick and it drives this ol’ world to the extent of all else. Your words are so kind and meaningful – I thank you for thinking so much of me. I’ve always thought and think so highly of you – want so much for you to be well. I love you too – and you will always be my special “kindred spirit.” Nothing can ever change that.

Sonia32:
Sis, I hope you can see now why you must be around. I see a new Sonia in your PM – one that’s alive and one that can make a difference. If it takes me to bring you out of “lurking” that must be the reason I’m still here. Thank you for your thoughts and on your willingness to reach out and help me. Stay strong for me and I’ll get things handled here in the Lone Star State.

Well, the responses were overwhelming and heartwarming! I certainly took it all to heart. I certainly did not feel so alone yesterday or today. I’ll let you know how it all plays out. I’ve been carrying this around for nearly 3 months, and wanted to say something, but with all the tragedies we experienced, and with people needing real help, I just felt guilty about talking about this, even though I could see it coming.

This was a good post, and it bother me that we have fought so hard, and there are many of us now, and maybe many more to come, who will face this. Reading your heartfelt stories has made me realize, how we are all tied at the hip in this thing – together we stand, or united we fall.

The board is at it’s best when we come together, united in a cause, each with our own perspectives and experiences, and we can apply them to helping and supporting each other. When all of this dials in and comes together, I still believe this is one beautiful place to be. It is the Diversity and the Personality that makes this place hum and click.

-Craig