My Medicaid Story: The Real Cost of Life with Cancer
By Michelle Lawrence, Patient Advocate, American Cancer Society Cancer Action Network (ACS-CAN)
Editor’s note: Michelle Lawrence shared her Medicaid testimony with the National Health Council (NHC) as part of the joint efforts of NHC and its member organizations, including ACS-CAN, to preserve Medicaid access. It has been edited for length and structure
Sixteen years ago, around my 31st birthday, I was diagnosed with a rare chronic cancer, which was not a very fun birthday present. At the time of diagnosis, I worked as a case manager for a nonprofit organization and paid for private health insurance. As a single person supporting myself financially, most of my income went toward medical expenses. People will tell you “Life is priceless,” but I beg to differ—it comes at a cost.
Cancer is expensive, and private insurance is just as costly. While paying insurance for over thirteen years after my diagnosis, I spent approximately $20,000 on medical visits. Copays, deductibles, and out-of-pocket expenses added up quickly. During that time, I delayed treatment, skipped doctor’s appointments, and ignored doctor’s recommendations due to the costs. Sometimes, I had to decide between going to the doctor, paying rent, or purchasing groceries. Those aren’t decisions anyone should have to make, especially a cancer patient. If we continue to tell each other that life is priceless, our actions must start reflecting that sentiment.
I quickly learned that my cancer would no longer allow me to work full-time; I tried but failed miserably. My new baseline didn’t permit me to stand on my feet, work long days, or be alert during long meetings. Deficits are difficult to admit, and I nearly died trying to hide them.
Due to brain fog, I would forget about meetings and who said what when. My doctor made it clear that if I kept working, the cancer would kill me quickly. The stress of employment was something my body couldn’t endure.
Two years ago, when my employer let me go, I could not afford COBRA while trying to meet my essential financial obligations. Applying for Medicaid was the only AND best option I had. I am SO thankful I qualified. With Medicaid, I have had full access to all the medical care I need, including home health, therapy, and medication. For the first time in my cancer journey of almost sixteen years, the primary focus is on my care, not my insurance and insurance costs. I no longer wake up in the middle of the night, panicked because I don’t know if I should skip the doctor’s recommendations or pay rent late. Now, I can seek the care I need, follow up on recommendations, and I am not concerned about incurring medical debt.
Access to Medicaid has alleviated so much stress, making me emotional just thinking about it. This is why I volunteered to share my story: I am one of the lucky ones. Without Medicaid, I would be dead. I am a healthier person because I have the care I need and don’t have to delay any treatment.
Our current political climate frightens me and causes a lot of anxiety. People are putting a price tag on life. My life, and the lives of millions of others, is on the chopping block with the proposed cuts to Medicaid. Medicaid is supposed to be a safety net that cares for those who need it. So many people will lose access to life-saving care like me if Medicaid is cut. I am not ready to die. Please don’t put a price tag on my life or anyone else’s; I am more than a number. Hands off Medicaid.
