I used to donate blood at least three times a year. I did it as a way of helping others and never realized it would one day lead to me being diagnosed with myelodysplastic syndrome (MDS). But that’s exactly what happened in 2006, when a case of anemia kept me from donating blood that year.
Shortly after that diagnosis, my doctor prescribed cycles of chemotherapy. I was shocked by the $3,200 bill I was expected to pay – the 20 percent share I was responsible for after the insurance coverage contribution. That is when my doctor’s office referred me to The Leukemia & Lymphoma Society (LLS) where I learned about the Co-Pay Assistance program. I loved the fact that I could easily communicate with the staff because they were able to speak with me in Spanish.
I am so grateful to LLS for continuing to help me offset my high co-pay costs to this day. I look forward to winning the lottery some day so I can give back to the organization that has given me so much.
Luis
Myelodysplastic syndrome (MDS) survivor
