G'evening, friends!
So, these last 10 days I'm reminded of the splendid lyrics to McCartney's "Let It Be."
What began as routine steps to clear Tom for a hip replacement has mushroomed into something neither of us expected.
In short (something I'm not especially good at) ...
After meeting with the surgeon's NP she declared him a "high risk." A resulting blood test reveals Tom has tested positive for inflammation markers ... an after effect of spinal osteomyelitis. A few days later, a trip to Alex City pulmonologist ... who wants a CAT scan performed before he OK's surgery. An upcoming cardio stress test ... a pending MRI. Oh, and a dental exam.
No worries; we're rules followers. Except. The VA hasn't yet authorized the surgeon's office as a "Community Care" provider. In other words, the financial burden of several of these tests lay smackdab at our feet.
Thankfully, Tom's (VA) primary has submitted a request to have these covered under Community Care. It may be weeks ... or even months before a decision is reached.
After discussion -- and prayers -- we've decided to put everything on hold and wait to see if this authorization doesn't come through. I hate that Tom's in pain, but he's determined not to incur unnecessary debt.
What is your "go to" when feeling out of control?
This is me ...
Yesterday's comfort food --
Right now, there's a glass of Cab and soft pajamas calling my name.
I hope the approval comes soon! Take care.
ReplyDeleteThank you! 😘
DeleteI am praying for Tom and for you, Mevely. Trust in God and pray with me too.
ReplyDeleteGod bless you both.
Yes, always!
DeleteOh wow, I understand about those tests now...just went through a slew of them! I do hope you won't have to wait too long to get things taken care of. Praying the approval will come through in record time. Praying for Tom's comfort in the meantime. Praying for both of you. Glad you had a nice time out. Sounds like fun, except for the people smoking indoors...I would've had to have left that for breathing purposes! LOL. God is with you and I pray all works out well for Tom.
ReplyDeleteI understand! Because I smoked for so many years, it doesn't bother me; in fact, I sometimes enjoy the aroma. (Weird, I know.)
DeleteKeeping you both in prayer, my friend. I am not sure being indoors with smokers, but the food sounds good, smiles.
ReplyDeleteWould you believe, they have outdoor tables for the non-smokers? Reminds me of that old book, "Up the down staircase!"
DeleteOh, gosh, so sorry to hear about Tom's spinal pains. Ugh on all those tests. They are not fun (been there, done that). It's very wise to not incur the debts. I pray that the VA will approve everything for y'all. Hopefully the VA has improved on not letting these things go on and on. But, God is bigger than all our problems. He's got this.
ReplyDeleteThere's a Pub!? Lucky things. I wish we had one of those here only without the smoking.
Blessings. 💓
Ya, it reminds me of Cheers!
DeletePlease keep us updated about Tom's health, Myra. It's awful to be in pain like that and not being able to get things fixed the way they should be. I'll be praying right along with y'all! And that bar IS a throwback, for sure. Blessings!
ReplyDeleteYour prayers are so valued, Martha!
DeleteHoping for good test results and tests that are OK'd by insurance.
ReplyDeleteWhat a nice throwback bar (except for the cigarette smoke, which really does bother me)
I think they must have a supersonic vent system b/c I didn't see any wafting smoke. Nevertheless, I understand what you're saying.
DeleteMyra, I feel frustrated for you and Tom. I will join the prayer group - I hope the tests are done soon- that he will pass - and get successful surgery!
ReplyDeleteI don't understand the system.
I don't either!
DeleteI’m so sorry to hear about Tom’s pain. Who told you it could be months? That’s crazy.
DeleteMy husband uses the VA exclusively and they always come through. Sure there have been some delays but nothing out of the ordinary. We have found that the VA have improved 💯 since the pandemic. We’ve become quite protective of the VA - those who aren’t on it or never served are always bashing it. It’s been a godsend. My husband prefers the VA to private care because let’s face it, the VA understands the overall special needs of our veterans.
I do hope they approve and comes through in a reasonable time with no incurring of any additional out of pocket debt.
Boy just reading blogs with so many illnesses and such. You’d think we’re all getting old or something. 😉
That would be his primary. I have to admit, the VA has been amazing. We're so grateful for them all.
DeleteI am so sorry that Tom is in pain. I hope everything gets approved quickly and y'all can move forward!! Tom's meal at the Pub sounds really delicious. If I were eating that, I might want to lick the plate, too!
ReplyDeleteI can't wait to go back (after 2p) when they bring out their full menu and try the seafood.
DeleteSometimes the VA is quick and sometimes you wonder if you've been forgotten. We were usually lucky with Joe's docs at the VA clinic to allow community care (without going to the VA hospital in Tampa). Nice find on the Pub! The food sounds delicious! Sending a hug, Myra!
ReplyDeleteSunday hugs, Terri!
DeleteI'm sending prayers that everything will work out.
ReplyDeleteThank you, Kathy.
DeleteYou said: No worries; we're rules followers. ... Me too, but at times a terrible drag. Praying and hoping for the best in all this, Oh yes and I do love 'Let it Be'. Sending the best your way!
ReplyDelete🤗
DeletePS: The VA has been so good to me.
ReplyDeleteHere, too. Everyone, at all 'levels' is wonderfully congenial and polite.
DeleteI am so sorry to hear this and I am praying that everything will be covered. So sorry that he is in pain. That sausage omelet looks delicious. Were those ladies outside smoking? Glad you enjoyed that pub. Hope you enjoyed your wine.
ReplyDeleteNo, Debby. I think this is the only such establishment in the county that allows smoking inside.
Delete