My name is James M. Jimenez, I am 22 years old, and on April 9, 2008 I was diagnosed with stage 3 rectal cancer. I am currently receiving chemo & radiation therapy and will have surgery in July, followed by an additional 4 to 6 months of chemotherapy.
I have moved back in with my parents and have exhausted my savings just with my prescription co-pays. At this time I have over $7,000.00 in unpaid medical bills.
I have continued to work through my chemo and radiation to keep my insurance and have only missed work when I was kept at the hospital for additional fluids or transfusions. My biggest concern is that I will be unable to work for at least 4 – 6 weeks following surgery because of the need of a permanent colostomy.
When I was diagnosed, I was enrolled in classes at El Camino College. I was forced to quit school so I could begin chemo & radiation therapy. I am hoping to buy a laptop computer so I am able to take online classes while I am in the hospital and at home recuperating from surgery.
I know you are probably faced with many applications for assistance and any help that you can give would be greatly appreciated.
Sincerely,
James M. Jimenez