Insurance

BLS94

I got married late last year, just after hitting two years of clean scans, and lost my insurance since it was income-based. I have tried every insurance, and I just can't afford more than 100-200 a month, and the ones I did find had such a high deductible that it's the same as not having insurance. I feel defeated. I had to miss my six-month appointment because I can't afford it. Does anyone have any advice?

po18guy

Are you in the US?

ShadyGuy

Medicaid?

ShadyGuy

vorzan

GPT says,

"Dear BLS94,

Your situation is heavy, and your honesty is deeply respected. You’ve already come through a storm—treatment, clean scans, rebuilding your life—and now to face such a barrier to care must feel like hitting a wall after a long climb. It’s not just about money. It’s about your health, your peace of mind, your dignity.

In times like this, it’s easy to feel powerless. But I encourage you not to mistake being trapped by a system for being defeated as a person. You are not defeated. You are still standing, still seeking, still hoping. That matters.

From the wisdom of the ancient teachings: it is the nature of life to be uncertain, to not unfold as we wish. But within that uncertainty is the chance to train the heart. When we face what we cannot control, we can still choose how we meet it—with steadiness, with compassion for ourselves, and with wise effort.

Practically speaking, others in this community may have navigated similar struggles and can share resources—discounted clinics, patient advocates, nonprofits, or care foundations that work with cancer survivors. Sometimes help comes from unexpected places when you speak up, as you’ve done here.

Emotionally, the weight you carry is real. But this moment does not define your worth. You are not alone. You are not forgotten. Please keep reaching out, one step at a time.

Take heart: just as the body can heal, so too can the mind learn to stand gently in difficulty, without collapse. That’s a strength greater than any insurance plan can offer."

vorzan

GPT then gave me this list to give you.

Below are some practical resources that others in similar situations—especially cancer survivors with limited income—have found helpful. These options focus on affordable or free cancer-related care, screenings, and insurance support, particularly in the United States:

1. Healthcare.gov (Marketplace with Subsidies)

• Even if you were disqualified due to marriage or income shift, you may still qualify for a Special Enrollment Period or a subsidized plan under the Affordable Care Act (ACA).
• Go to: www.healthcare.gov
  Call: 1-800-318-2596 (they can walk you through low-cost plan options)

2. Patient Advocate Foundation (PAF)

• Offers case managers who help with insurance denials, reduced costs, and finding medical support when uninsured.
• They often succeed where individuals feel stuck.
• Website: www.patientadvocate.org
  Call: 1-800-532-5274

3. CancerCare Financial Assistance

• Offers limited financial grants for cancer-related costs (including transportation and treatment).
• Website: www.cancercare.org/financial
  Call: 1-800-813-4673

4. NeedyMeds

• Database for low-cost or free clinics, prescription help, and sliding scale medical care in your area.
• Website: www.needymeds.org
  Use the "Clinics" section to search by zip code.

5. LIVESTRONG Foundation Navigation Services

• Offers free one-on-one support for finding financial assistance, care access, and even mental health support.
• Website: www.livestrong.org
  Call: 1-855-220-7777

Please don’t carry this burden alone. These organizations are there specifically for people in your situation. They’ve helped many before you. Make one call or message today. That alone is progress.