I'm tired of paying out of pocket when medical insurance covers my medical expenses, but due to being in the hospital for 9 months, I was placed in a shelter. The shelter would not allow me to receive mail. I told them it's a lifeline; I can't buy colostomy bags at a pharmacy, and they told me it doesn't matter, they would send them back. So, I didn't have a choice. I didn't have a place to live, so I had to stay at the shelter. Basically, I started paying out of pocket. They said they could send them to the Amazon Locker; this way, that was the mailing address. I still am waiting for my housing; it should be any day, but until then, I've been paying so much per month for colostomy bags, adhesive rings, glue, powder—it's not cheap. I'm still waiting for disability because Stanford Hospital lost my records. I don't know why I have a colostomy; I can't get a straight answer. I'm just frustrated with the whole thing. So now, I'm financially in the hole more and more as the days go by, and I had to open up a GoFundMe page. I've never asked for help in my life. I'm trying to stay positive, but it's very hard to do in a shelter with all kinds of people, some of whom are rude and some of whom are okay. Being broke every day, and like I said, I'm one who takes care of myself. I don't ask for help, so some days I feel like it's just a fight that's not worth fighting. How do I get myself to stop feeling like that? It'd be easier if I knew why I have an ileostomy, but without records, we don't know why. So, I had to get a lawyer, and hopefully, he can figure it out. Thank you for listening.
You can have supplies sent to a P.O. Box.
And contact the maker of the ostomy bag you are using; maybe they can send you free bags to a P.O. box. Tell them you are having a hardship.
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I’ve only been on this site a little bit, I hardly know how to navigate it, LOL! I just want to say that everyone seems so kind and supportive to each of the members and it’s not only helpful, it makes me happy that there really are so many nice people in this world that can sometimes feel so bleak and cold. I didn’t even know about this site until I found it by accident. I think the hospital staff should bring it to their patients’ attention. Thanks to all, even if you’re just listening!
Sorry to hear this, but Maried has given you the best advice. I'm not sure putting up a GoFundMe is appropriate; there have been a lot of scams trolling through this site.
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Hi blue,
Waking up with a colostomy and them not telling you why is a bit mind-numbing! Having them lose your records is inexcusable. Your lawyer is going to have a field day... and you're gonna hit the jackpot! So hang in there!
Since you got here, I assume you have access to the internet. If so, go to the link below. It lists the numbers for the major suppliers, who all have some type of emergency supply provision. Also, look lower and click on the link entitled "UOAA has Affiliated Support Groups" and look for a group that is closest to you. Call them and see if someone can run some supplies over to you. Let us know how you make out.
https://www.ostomy.org/emergency-supplies/
;O)