Well another year has gone by- and another birthday!! Three years since my stem cell transplant at Mayo.

This year I turned 65 and that brought changes to my health and prescription insurance.  Before 65, i had private insurance and my cancer drugs were funded by the drug companies. But once you are placed on Medicare, that option is no longer available.  Choosing appropriate coverage for my needs were essential and i was able to use a Medicare broker to assist me making these decisions.  This learning experience was a bit stressful to say the least. Even though I had drug coverage, the first prescription in the new year placed me into the catastrophic category. Fortunately, I was able to secure a $13,000 grant from the Leukemia Lymphoma Society (LLS).  This will cover my cancer prescription costs  until the end of October, then I will have to seek out funds for the remaining months of November and December.  Mayo and the local Walgreen have people to assist with grant resources and application. 

I was taking two oral cancer medications.

1. One oral medication take 1 tablet for 21 days, off 7 days

2. The other take once each week.   I quickly learned to substitute the once a week medication with an injection every two weeks. Medicare will cover this injection 100% .  This will extend the time of my grant. Crazy, you have to play the game.

Even though my therapy is overseen by Mayo, I am now going to UFairview in Maple Grove every two weeks to have my injections.  I cannot say enough good things about this clinic. The hematologist is awesome and the clinic staff are so sweet and caring and it is a 10 minute drive.  I continue to visit Mayo about every three months.

My labs remain great; I am still considered in remission.  My left hip remains troublesome and i also have arthritis in my lower back which is affecting my legs. Even with medication, it can be difficult to move around and do daily activities.  Every now and then I will use a cane and sometimes a walker.

Rick and I have had a few getaways. Our next trip is to visit our daughter who just moved to the Seattle area. 

Wishing you well,  Leanne