Several days ago, our friend Leann asked a great question. She wanted to know the reason that this will be our last attempt at conceiving a child through advanced reproductive technology. Basically, there are no medical limits on the number of times one may undergo IVF or IUI; however, we have personally met our financial limit. At this point, about $50,000 has been invested in our attempts to conceive. That's a great deal of money, no matter how you look at it. Although I don't regret it, I am convicted that there are more certain and sacrificial ways for us to proceed.
Should July's Frozen Embryo Transfer be unsuccessful, I feel strongly that we should invest in adoption. At that point, we will have exhausted every treatment option available. If we found a huge bag of money, we would probably continue IVFs until I'm no longer of child-bearing age. But barring some miraculous windfall, it is time for us to be sure any future investment guarantees us a child. I feel convicted that adoption should be our next step. Of course, we will continue to pray for a miraculous natural conception. But I believe our efforts should be directed toward giving an orphaned child a loving home.
Of course, we know that God's plan may be different than ours. He may change our hearts or drop the aforementioned bag of money in our laps. Who knows. At this point, I pray that the FET yields a healthy pregnancy. If not, I pray that Wade and I will have congruent feelings about our next step.
Please keep the questions coming! Blessings, Ramona
Showing posts with label Finances. Show all posts
Showing posts with label Finances. Show all posts
Sunday, May 20, 2007
Monday, May 14, 2007
Adventures in Infertility
Well, it's been a weekend of processing, grieving and binging on Hostess Crumb Donettes, Houlihan's Stuffed 'Shrooms and Diet Wild Cherry Pepsi. I am now back to my healthy ways and ready to face the world again.
After prayerful consideration and collaboration with our trusty caregivers, Wade and I have determined that our next episode of Adventures in Infertility will be take place in mid-July. It will be a double feature entitled, "Frozen Embryo Transfer x 2." I'm waiting for Dr. Silber's people to contact my people to talk finances and firm dates.
Although the cost of FET is much less than IVF, it's definitely not pocket change. I considered setting up a trust fund to help with the medical bills, but instead decided this would be a great opportunity to encourage the sale of Wade's contraband motorcycle. If anyone is interested, it's a striking royal blue 1982 Yamaha Maxim 750 in great condition with less than 16K miles. Place your bids in the comment section!
As you can tell, I'm doing much better today. A big part of the reason is that there seems to be some hope with the dire family situation I mentioned Friday. I'd love to expound further, but it's a private matter--too sensitive to put on a blog. If you feel led, please pray that there is a positive resolution for a couple I love dearly. God will know who you're talking about!
Thanks again for all of the uplifting comments and prayers. A special shout out to Dave and Kate, who brought us a gorgeous plant and loving words. Also, thanks to Wade's parents for lovely outside dining at Houlihan's...a much needed break from reality!
Bless you all, Ramona
After prayerful consideration and collaboration with our trusty caregivers, Wade and I have determined that our next episode of Adventures in Infertility will be take place in mid-July. It will be a double feature entitled, "Frozen Embryo Transfer x 2." I'm waiting for Dr. Silber's people to contact my people to talk finances and firm dates.
Although the cost of FET is much less than IVF, it's definitely not pocket change. I considered setting up a trust fund to help with the medical bills, but instead decided this would be a great opportunity to encourage the sale of Wade's contraband motorcycle. If anyone is interested, it's a striking royal blue 1982 Yamaha Maxim 750 in great condition with less than 16K miles. Place your bids in the comment section!
As you can tell, I'm doing much better today. A big part of the reason is that there seems to be some hope with the dire family situation I mentioned Friday. I'd love to expound further, but it's a private matter--too sensitive to put on a blog. If you feel led, please pray that there is a positive resolution for a couple I love dearly. God will know who you're talking about!
Thanks again for all of the uplifting comments and prayers. A special shout out to Dave and Kate, who brought us a gorgeous plant and loving words. Also, thanks to Wade's parents for lovely outside dining at Houlihan's...a much needed break from reality!
Bless you all, Ramona
Friday, April 20, 2007
IVF and Insurance Coverage
Today I received my second prescription order via Fed Ex. The first was $1200, and this one was $1500. [I share the financial figures only to help readers more fully understand the process.] Our insurance does not cover fertility treatments--not even the medication. And we are not the exception to the rule. Most insurance companies do not pay for any fertility related expenses. They cover the diagnosis, but not the treatment. It's a shame. BCBS covers impotence treatments and Viagra, but they do not provide infertility coverage. It seems that the company values the function of the male sex organ, but does not care equally about the female reproductive organs. Candid, but true.
There are several states that have mandated fertility coverage by insurance companies. One of them is Illinois, which is just across the river. Wade and I have seriously considered a change of residence and/or employment in order to acquire the insurance benefits. In Illinois, three cycles of IVF are covered automatically. For us, that would translate into over $45,000. That's a huge amount of money!
Most European countries cover all costs related to infertility and advanced reproductive technologies. Many of them also provide several months of paid maternity and paternity leave! Other nations appear to understand the value of pregnancy and childbirth more than the U.S. Our country is so advanced in so many ways, but so primitive in others. It's astounding.
For couples who struggle with infertility in the U.S., treatment is considered a luxury. Every expense is out-of-pocket. When I began using fertility medication, I learned (the hard way) that various pharmacies charge different amounts for the same medication. As a result, I looked high and low for the best prices. During my 1st IVF cycle, I ordered from New York and London, which offered the lowest cost and reasonable shipping.
Thankfully, St. Louis also has one of the top pharmacies in the country (IVP Care), which is helpful when the doctor calls with a last minute orders and prescriptions that must be filled immediately. For this round of IVF, I actually used IVP Care for all of my meds, because they offer a substantial discount for 2nd and 3rd-time IVF patients. I think I saved about 15% overall...a sizeable amount of pocket change.
Anyway, I hope this information helps with gaining a better understanding of the financial challenges facing couples with infertility. I recognize that I am very fortunate to have a healthy child and this opportunity to undergo a 2nd IVF, and I hope that individuals and companies in the U.S. begin to place a higher value on the reproductive health of our nation. Fertility problems are difficult enough without the financial burden of treatment costs.
Here's to counting our blessings and improving our way of life. May God bess you and yours! Ramona
There are several states that have mandated fertility coverage by insurance companies. One of them is Illinois, which is just across the river. Wade and I have seriously considered a change of residence and/or employment in order to acquire the insurance benefits. In Illinois, three cycles of IVF are covered automatically. For us, that would translate into over $45,000. That's a huge amount of money!
Most European countries cover all costs related to infertility and advanced reproductive technologies. Many of them also provide several months of paid maternity and paternity leave! Other nations appear to understand the value of pregnancy and childbirth more than the U.S. Our country is so advanced in so many ways, but so primitive in others. It's astounding.
For couples who struggle with infertility in the U.S., treatment is considered a luxury. Every expense is out-of-pocket. When I began using fertility medication, I learned (the hard way) that various pharmacies charge different amounts for the same medication. As a result, I looked high and low for the best prices. During my 1st IVF cycle, I ordered from New York and London, which offered the lowest cost and reasonable shipping.
Thankfully, St. Louis also has one of the top pharmacies in the country (IVP Care), which is helpful when the doctor calls with a last minute orders and prescriptions that must be filled immediately. For this round of IVF, I actually used IVP Care for all of my meds, because they offer a substantial discount for 2nd and 3rd-time IVF patients. I think I saved about 15% overall...a sizeable amount of pocket change.
Anyway, I hope this information helps with gaining a better understanding of the financial challenges facing couples with infertility. I recognize that I am very fortunate to have a healthy child and this opportunity to undergo a 2nd IVF, and I hope that individuals and companies in the U.S. begin to place a higher value on the reproductive health of our nation. Fertility problems are difficult enough without the financial burden of treatment costs.
Here's to counting our blessings and improving our way of life. May God bess you and yours! Ramona
Thursday, March 01, 2007
Brands I Live By
When I find something wonderful, I just have to pass it along. Here are a few the trusted products and websites enhance my duties as a wife and mother:
Consumer Reports-evaluates and ranks consumer goods (from diapers to dishwashers to digital cameras). We look to CR for their input before making major purchases, and we rely on them for identifying trusted brands. CR is available by subscription and online at http://www.consumerreports.org/
Grocery Game-for significant savings on brands you already use with this helpful site. It pairs up current sales at supermarkets and drugstore with available coupons. The web address is http://www.grocerygame.com/ and you can sign up for a $1.00/week trial. To get the most savings, collect the coupon sections of the Sunday paper for at least four (preferably 10) prior to starting the trial. If you register, please use my email address as a referral: earthangelmona@aol.com (Who can't use a free week of service!)
Ergo Baby Carrier-a soft, durable, ergonomic backpack for carrying your baby or toddler. Even with my back problems, I can carry 36-pound Liliana on my back for several miles. No joke! It is comfortable for me and ergonomically designed for the growing bodies of our little ones. I have traveled hundreds of miles with Liliana happily secured in the carrier. Find it at www.ergobabycarrier.com
Magic Eraser by Mr. Clean-If you have a tough stain on any hard surface, this sponge will get it out. You have to see it to believe it--it really works! Available at most retailers.
Children's Place Socks-they are available in a variety of colors, and they're the only socks that stay on Liliana's feet. Bonus: they have grippers and the sock size on the bottoms. Worth every penny!
Boz DVDs-Boz, the big green bear will provide educational entertainment for your child while reinforcing godly principles. Liliana loves the series so much that it's her first choice when offered the opportunity to watch a video. Boz can be purchased online or in Christian bookstores.
Shout out and tell me what you love! Ramona
Consumer Reports-evaluates and ranks consumer goods (from diapers to dishwashers to digital cameras). We look to CR for their input before making major purchases, and we rely on them for identifying trusted brands. CR is available by subscription and online at http://www.consumerreports.org/
Grocery Game-for significant savings on brands you already use with this helpful site. It pairs up current sales at supermarkets and drugstore with available coupons. The web address is http://www.grocerygame.com/ and you can sign up for a $1.00/week trial. To get the most savings, collect the coupon sections of the Sunday paper for at least four (preferably 10) prior to starting the trial. If you register, please use my email address as a referral: earthangelmona@aol.com (Who can't use a free week of service!)
Ergo Baby Carrier-a soft, durable, ergonomic backpack for carrying your baby or toddler. Even with my back problems, I can carry 36-pound Liliana on my back for several miles. No joke! It is comfortable for me and ergonomically designed for the growing bodies of our little ones. I have traveled hundreds of miles with Liliana happily secured in the carrier. Find it at www.ergobabycarrier.com
Magic Eraser by Mr. Clean-If you have a tough stain on any hard surface, this sponge will get it out. You have to see it to believe it--it really works! Available at most retailers.
Children's Place Socks-they are available in a variety of colors, and they're the only socks that stay on Liliana's feet. Bonus: they have grippers and the sock size on the bottoms. Worth every penny!
Boz DVDs-Boz, the big green bear will provide educational entertainment for your child while reinforcing godly principles. Liliana loves the series so much that it's her first choice when offered the opportunity to watch a video. Boz can be purchased online or in Christian bookstores.
Shout out and tell me what you love! Ramona
Monday, February 26, 2007
Let the Games Begin!
It's official! Today we paid the deposit on our next IVF treatment. Our target dates are April 29th & May 2nd (egg retrieval and embryo transfer, respectively). This long process actually begins with the start of my next cycle. With this online journal, you'll have a front row seat to all of the action.
Today is Wade's birthday, and he has bronchitis, pharyngitis, and some other kind of "itis." Poor baby! Liliana seems to be feeling much better, while I have the 24/7 kind of nausea that makes me leary of eating. The bright side: instant diet!
Funny: Liliana just exclaimed, "Mom, come check me out!" Then she said with a serious tone, "Don't worry, Mom." Both phrases made me laugh, and then I began to wonder: since when did she graduate from saying "Mommy" to plain ol' "Mom?" Is she suddenly too mature for "Mommy?" Good grief!
Another Funny: This morning from her carseat Liliana remarked, "Hello, McFly!" (from Back to the Future as relayed by Mommy--oh, I'm sorry...Mom." She's two going on 20 sometimes!
Happy 24 watching tonight, my fellow addicts!
Today is Wade's birthday, and he has bronchitis, pharyngitis, and some other kind of "itis." Poor baby! Liliana seems to be feeling much better, while I have the 24/7 kind of nausea that makes me leary of eating. The bright side: instant diet!
Funny: Liliana just exclaimed, "Mom, come check me out!" Then she said with a serious tone, "Don't worry, Mom." Both phrases made me laugh, and then I began to wonder: since when did she graduate from saying "Mommy" to plain ol' "Mom?" Is she suddenly too mature for "Mommy?" Good grief!
Another Funny: This morning from her carseat Liliana remarked, "Hello, McFly!" (from Back to the Future as relayed by Mommy--oh, I'm sorry...Mom." She's two going on 20 sometimes!
Happy 24 watching tonight, my fellow addicts!
Tuesday, November 28, 2006
HOPEFUL
Wade and I have been married for four years. Throughout that time, we have experienced countless blessings together. Although we've had our share of trials, our years have been quite beautiful. As our love has grown stronger, so grows our dream of a home filled with the laughter of children. Unfortunately, we have come to realize that having a large family may not be in God's plan for us. Early in our marriage we were diagnosed with unexplained infertility. We yearned for a child and experienced a great deal of grief and disappointment each month that passed with no result. After undergoing fertility treatments for over a year and enduring a miscarriage, we were finally blessed with a precious daughter in 2004.
At this point, we have been "trying" for almost two years, with another miscarriage in 2005. Two years may not seem like a long time, but specialists in this field agree that a woman of my age (34) should conceive within one year. We have been working with a highly regarded specialist since January, 2006, and we have exhausted every treatment option except for In Vitro Fertilization (IVF). After much prayer and deliberation, we have decided to undergo IVF. We are currently scheduled for the procedures (egg retrieval and embryo transfer) on December 17 and 20th, respectively. We are very fortunate that our IVF specialist is considered one of the best in the world, and his medical center is located here in St. Louis at St. Luke's Hospital.
IVF is a very intense process. It can be (and usually is) emotionally and physically taxing, and the financial strain is almost overwhelming for a family on a budget. For those of you who don't know, IVF is very expensive ($14-18,000, depending on the medication needs) with around a 50% chance for success. It is a huge risk, but we know it will be worth it. I wouldn't trade my Liliana for the world, and we already feel that way about future children.
I have already begun taking oral and injectable medications to get my cycle aligned with the target dates. On Dec. 4th, I begin two more meds which will stimulate follicle (egg) growth. Daily monitoring by ultrasound and bloodwork begins on Dec. 8th. [Forgive me if this is TMI (too much information), but it comes with the territory. I am now an expert in a field I never intended to master.] I will try to provide daily updates on this site--for both informational and cathartic purposes. Feel free to leave comments, questions and words of encouragement! So far, my emotions have been steady...but I know from months past that the hormones can send me on an emotional rollercoaster. Poor Wade! He has been so supportive and loving throughout this trial. I thank the Lord for him every day.
Thank you for joining me in this process. Your thoughts and well-wishes are truly appreciated!
Blessings,
Ramona
At this point, we have been "trying" for almost two years, with another miscarriage in 2005. Two years may not seem like a long time, but specialists in this field agree that a woman of my age (34) should conceive within one year. We have been working with a highly regarded specialist since January, 2006, and we have exhausted every treatment option except for In Vitro Fertilization (IVF). After much prayer and deliberation, we have decided to undergo IVF. We are currently scheduled for the procedures (egg retrieval and embryo transfer) on December 17 and 20th, respectively. We are very fortunate that our IVF specialist is considered one of the best in the world, and his medical center is located here in St. Louis at St. Luke's Hospital.
IVF is a very intense process. It can be (and usually is) emotionally and physically taxing, and the financial strain is almost overwhelming for a family on a budget. For those of you who don't know, IVF is very expensive ($14-18,000, depending on the medication needs) with around a 50% chance for success. It is a huge risk, but we know it will be worth it. I wouldn't trade my Liliana for the world, and we already feel that way about future children.
I have already begun taking oral and injectable medications to get my cycle aligned with the target dates. On Dec. 4th, I begin two more meds which will stimulate follicle (egg) growth. Daily monitoring by ultrasound and bloodwork begins on Dec. 8th. [Forgive me if this is TMI (too much information), but it comes with the territory. I am now an expert in a field I never intended to master.] I will try to provide daily updates on this site--for both informational and cathartic purposes. Feel free to leave comments, questions and words of encouragement! So far, my emotions have been steady...but I know from months past that the hormones can send me on an emotional rollercoaster. Poor Wade! He has been so supportive and loving throughout this trial. I thank the Lord for him every day.
Thank you for joining me in this process. Your thoughts and well-wishes are truly appreciated!
Blessings,
Ramona
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