Those of you who know me, know that I don’t usually complain much. I prefer to write things that enrich and build us up here at Diabetes Health Nuts. Today, though, I am sick and I just needed to write about it.
Losing State Assistance
About two months ago, I was told that I was no longer eligible for state assistance with my insurance. Since I take insulin and another very expensive medication for type 2 diabetes, I was immediately thrown into a panic. My medications for diabetes cost nearly as much a month as I make—roughly $1500, and that’s just for the injections. It doesn’t include the needles, test strips, etc. I could get insurance that costs me nearly $800 a month, but it doesn’t cover anything until the deductible is met, which is $6800.
Struggling Without Medications
I’ve been desperately seeking ways to make the insulin I have last, but to no avail. I have run out. I have been out of the Ozempic for over a month now. I have been watching my blood sugar readings go from nearly normal readings to now readings of 300-400 over the course of the past two months.
Understanding Blood Sugar Readings
For those of you who are not familiar with blood sugar or blood glucose readings, a “good” reading is around 100 for a normal person. As a type 2 diabetic, my healthcare team was happy with readings around 130 for me upon waking and as high as 180 about an hour after eating. On the insulin, Ozempic, and Metformin, I was doing okay. My 14-day average was 144, and my health team was pretty happy with that.
Current Situation
However, fast-forward to early 2019. No more insurance and I am scaling back on my medication to make it last. I’ve had to cancel my scheduled doctor appointments because I can’t afford the office visit. I’ve had to not get my A1c test because I surely can’t afford that. Now my blood sugar readings look like this most of the time: This is not a good thing. I have some scary symptoms going on right now. My vision is very blurry. It’s like everything is on “soft focus.” I’ve cut my carbs and everything else I can think of, and nothing is helping.
Seeking Help
I have applied for help with my medications through Lilly Cares, a program run through the drug company that makes the type of insulin I take along with another medication they are going to switch me to instead of the Ozempic. Funny thing, they are switching me to a medication I previously had taken that didn’t work! I often wonder what goes on in the minds of those who are at the top of all of this! Is it a game to see how many of us “poor” people they can drop from the population? I’d like to say that I am sure I am exaggerating, but as I watch my vision slowly going…I wonder.
Trying the Keto Diet
Anyway, I am taking another “shot” at the Keto diet. I have to do something. I like helping people and I sure would like to be around for a while to do that. I’m just feeling very tired of fighting right now. Honestly, I am scared right now…
Finding Courage
And now, for something completely different… We don’t develop courage by being happy every day. We develop it by surviving difficult times and challenging adversity. —Barbara De Angelis I am hoping for some great things to come from this most recent battle on the health front. I will keep fighting because I know that I can overcome this… I will overcome this! Hope you all have a great week and remember to never take your health for granted.
The Financial Burden of Diabetes
The financial burden of managing diabetes without insurance is staggering. Every day is a new challenge, not just to maintain my health, but to figure out how to afford the necessary medications and supplies. The cost of insulin alone is enough to cause sleepless nights. I have to make hard choices between paying for medication and other essential needs. It feels like a never-ending battle with the healthcare system.
Navigating Without Medical Guidance
Without regular check-ups and monitoring from my healthcare team, I am essentially navigating my diabetes management blind. Skipping appointments and necessary tests means I am missing critical information about my health. The lack of professional guidance adds to the stress and uncertainty I already feel. It’s not just the physical symptoms that are alarming, but the constant worry about long-term complications from poorly managed diabetes.
Exploring Alternative Support Systems
In my search for affordable medication, I’ve encountered various support systems and programs designed to help those in need. Programs like Lilly Cares offer a glimmer of hope, but the process of applying and waiting for approval is stressful. Each day without proper medication feels like a step backward in my health journey. I also explore local community resources and support groups, seeking advice and shared experiences from others in similar situations.
The Emotional Toll
The emotional toll of dealing with diabetes without insurance is immense. I feel isolated and overwhelmed by the constant fear of not being able to manage my condition effectively. The physical symptoms are a daily reminder of my precarious situation. Blurred vision and fatigue make even simple tasks challenging. The stress of financial instability compounds these issues, creating a vicious cycle that is hard to break.
Adapting Lifestyle Changes
Adapting to lifestyle changes without the safety net of medical advice is daunting. I turn to diet modifications, like the Keto diet, as a way to control my blood sugar levels. It’s a trial and error process, with no guarantee of success. Each meal becomes a careful calculation of carbs and nutrients. I educate myself through online resources and community support, but the lack of personalized medical guidance is a constant concern.
Reaching Out for Help
Reaching out for help has become a necessary part of my routine. Whether it’s applying for medication assistance programs or seeking advice from friends and family, I realize I can’t do this alone. Sharing my struggles with others has been both therapeutic and practical. I receive tips and encouragement that help me navigate this difficult journey. It’s a reminder that there is strength in community, and asking for help is not a sign of weakness.
Looking Forward with Hope
Despite the challenges, I hold on to hope. I believe that through persistence and support, I can find a way to manage my diabetes effectively. Each day is a new opportunity to learn and adapt. I focus on small victories, like finding a new recipe that helps control my blood sugar or getting a positive response from a medication assistance program. These moments of hope keep me going, even when the road ahead seems daunting.
Final Thoughts
In conclusion, managing diabetes without insurance is an overwhelming and frightening experience. The financial burden, lack of medical guidance, and emotional toll are immense. However, through community support, lifestyle adaptations, and a determined spirit, I continue to fight for my health. It’s a journey filled with challenges, but also moments of hope and resilience. I encourage everyone to never take their health for granted and to support those who are struggling. Together, we can overcome adversity and find strength in each other.