We’re in the new year and are determined to make this Christopher’s year! We’re working with an Austin rehab facility that we are feeling very comfortable with and have received many very positive leads and comments from readers of the Austin Statesman after Christopher’s news article ran in last Sunday’s paper.
We purchased a Reck Motomed Viva 2 for Chris for leg and arm exercises in his room and are working on purchasing a standing frame to get him up and on his feet. When Texas Neuro cut off Chris’ therapies, we, as a family, put Chris into a standing frame twice daily and he did very well with it. Chris will additionally get some “stand time” in an auto ambulator at the newest rehab facility we’re using. We’re still missing the hyperbaric treatment part of the original plan before the DARS cut but the creative thinking cap is on and there may be another way to make that happen. We’ve learned of some promising neuro stimulants that we’re looking into.
Chris continues to have health insurance coverage, albeit through United Healthcare, the folks that have given us a very difficult time. Chris’s medical insurance has been paid through April of 2012. But just because you have medical insurance doesn’t mean that you necessarily have medical coverage, even when it’s provided for in the policy. For example, Chris has a calendar year 60-day skilled nursing benefit in his plan but United healthcare, according to the current nursing home business manager, “unequivacally” denied it. So we had to pay for it. I’ve heard folks say, “take them to court,” and we’re moving down that road, but in the meantime, we have to pay it out of pocket until it gets resolved.
The bottom line is that for-profit healthcare is just that, for profit!
Glad to learn that you guys are getting some therapy and equipment for Chris! I was really happy that you all had Christmas together at Robert’s.
I read the article about Chris in the Austin Statesman. I do a hospital ministry through our local Christian Motorcycle Association and I have seen a lot of motorcycle accidents and walked with several through rehab. The nightmare you all are going through to get Chris the proper care he needs is all too common! Chris is a lucky guy to have such a dedicated brother and parents there by his side. In April, on Easter Sunday, a motorcycle wreck left two 24 year olds in bad shape. Cody had a traumatic brain injury and not expected to ever walk, talk, or do anything. I have observed his brain make a unbelievable recovery! Yeah he has no use of one arm but he is walking, talking and did it all against the odds. Chris will be added to our prayer support network and we will pray for his recovery. God bless Chris and his family!
Thanks for the kind words, Richard. It’s always good to hear stories of folks recovering from injuries like these, because it gives me hope for Chris. Thank you.
Robert
Hi, Robert. I am a producer with the ABC affiliate in San Antonio. We covered your brother’s accident. I just read this story on the Statesman’s site and am interested in talking to you about your brother’s situation. If you’re interested in talking with us, you can contact me by email at nperez@ksat.com or by phone at (210) 351-1229.
I came across the article about Chris and found your website. I was so sorry to hear about Chris’s accident. As the mother of a teenager who suffered a severe head injury, I understand some of the struggles and hardships you are going through. Brain injury gets so little attention/funds. Most people have no idea of what these patients go through on their road to recovery. I wish all of you the very best and I will keep you in my prayers.