Behind the Wheel, Looking Ahead
The hilly backdrop of Fairfield County, Connecticut, provides the ideal retirement scene for Michael, providing proximity to family, friends, and fresh air for car rides. After operating businesses for much of his career, Mike recently retired with his husband, Ralph, enjoying time outdoors, social engagements, and occasional yard work. But in 2019 when Mike received a diagnosis of idiopathic pulmonary fibrosis (IPF), their peaceful retirement was disrupted. IPF causes scarring of the lung tissue, making physical activity and breathing difficult.
“You have to look forward, not letting any diagnosis stop your life,” Mike said. “For me, it’s about living.”
Stunned by the sticker shock of his copays for treatment — over $10,000 a month — Mike hit the internet to research financial resources that may be able to help.
“Goodness gracious! I’d never be able to afford that,” Mike said. “There’s no way I could pay.”
Mike’s queries brought him to The Assistance Fund’s (TAF’s) Idiopathic Pulmonary Fibrosis Copay Assistance Program, which offers financial assistance to eligible individuals for the cost of copayments.
“My pharmacy said great things about TAF, and I was determined to get my treatment,” he said. “I had a problem and you guys provided a solution.”
A few clicks through TAF’s online application process and document uploader meant Mike’s application went from submission to approval in less than 24 hours. Mike said he never imagined it would be so simple.
“And that was during your busy period — in December!” Mike said.
Mike enrolled in the Idiopathic Pulmonary Fibrosis Copay Assistance Program for 2020, meaning his coverage would last the entire calendar year. At first, 2020 promised to be a great year; Mike would be to walk with Ralph again around his local lake and take scenic drives through upstate New York and Connecticut. The coronavirus pandemic, however, forced Mike to alter his way of life. After consulting his pulmonologist, Mike knew he needed to take extra precautions. But that didn’t stop him from seeing a sliver of hope in otherwise dark times.
“I have to keep my optimism,” Mike said. “I have a yard. It’s the size of a postage stamp, but it’s got a patio, and not everyone has that.”
The pandemic has forced many people living with life-threatening, chronic, and rare diseases to change their routines, and Mike is no different. Outdoor time has been restrained to his patio. Video calls have replaced in-person conversation. This past Mother’s Day, Mike corralled his husband’s extended family across the tri-state area for an online video call with the family matriarch.
“Everyone was very generous with their time,” Mike said. “She was just floating. It made her month.”
Thanks to Mike’s car — a vintage convertible inherited from an uncle — he can safely take in the spring weather he loves so much. Despite the challenges, Mike is determined to maintain his positive attitude and continue living life to the fullest.
“It really can’t be overstated: Without TAF’s help, I would not be receiving the treatment I have,” Mike says. “You and your team make my life happen.”
