I started physical therapy after "winning" my fight with insurance. They seemed to think that I should go to a different state for treatment - a 2 hour train ride (with a cab, likely around $50 minimum for the trip, plus my $50 co-pay). So, basically, living in NYC - a virtual haven of everything you ever need and don't need, I was being shipped out to try and achieve the impossible. For my medical condition, caused by my other medical condition's treatment.
I am grateful for the therapy. I don't think it's the best I could get here in town. But, the hospital and therapist are ok. There is a therapist who specializes in JUST breast cancer related lymphedema. She charges under $300 per session. I got my first bill for the hospital sessions, and each one is over $2000. My copay is still $50. Now, why in the hell wouldn't the insurance company send me to a specialist who is out of network, send her the $250 and make me pay the other $50? It don't make no sense.
So, because I'm a research fanatic, I probably know more about my condition than she does. But, because I'm thorough and don't take answers as gospel, it's going well.
I got a vibration plate. Sounds sexy, no? No. Unless you feel totally hot when every ounce of fat, loose skin, and your very soul shake at an alarming rate. However, I love it. It feels great all over - weird, but great. I sometimes watch Netflix on it. I sometimes exercise (obliques and squats) on it. I sometimes just think. But, that's rare. Anyway, if you have lymphedema, or not, it's a good thing. Hubby likes it for his back and tight hip. Daughter likes it (on low) when she stands upon it, holding our crazy cats. Purrrrrrr...
I also got a custom Juxta Fit sleeve and glove, to wear at night. Egads. But, it actually is amazing. I am grateful, even though my stupid insurance has a $2000 deductible on equipment. Farging Bastages. It's almost like I have no insurance at all. Guess we'll be foraging for dinner in the clearance bins for a bit.
Bah.
I was really sick for a bit there, and give the credit to my post-cancer immune system. I'm going to have to put a new pre-cancer immunity on my Christmas list. But, I'm still one of the lucky ones. I'm still here and able to work and smile and wear sexy compression gear. Though, I'm forever grateful for my LympheDivas. At least my stupid arm can look cool, even when it doesn't feel cool!
