I don't know if this applies to anyone on the list, but I wanted to pass on something that I learned today. If a person is retired military or a Veteran Affairs patient, they are eligible for listing for transplant at Walter Reed Hospital. They also said that UNOS encourages dual listing. But the best thing is that they have a travel fund that covers evaluation, transplant surgery and follow up care plus travel and lodging.
Just got a letter from WRMMC and have been trying to telephonically contact them for two (going on 3 today) days. I am very much interested. I am listed with Mayo (Jacksonville, Florida) and Halifax (Daytona, Florida). I think my chances would be better at WRMMC because most military people are donors or at least would be interested in donating a kidney, especially near retirement. I will just keep leaving messages until I get a return telepone call.
That's probably the same letter I received. I'm not calling as I'm 80 so to old for a transplant. Good luck with your journey and let us know when/if you get in touch.
If you are healthy, other than he kidney issue, I was told that you are not too old. Does not hurt to call and get evaluated and let the transplant center tell you that you are too old. At the Mayo Clinic, I was told that age was not an issue, but health conditions were.
I thought age mattered. I also have COPD and Diabetes. Plus, as my own personal opinion I think I would not deny a younger person a kidney just so I could get one.
I use to feel that w ay, but if they have a kidney that is a match to me, then that is my sign that God has more in store for me and I am going to take real good care of it and use my life to the fullest.
Good for you. At 70 I probably thought that way too. My life now, while emotionally fulfilling, is physically difficult. I'm ready to start the next chapter of my life.
This great info. My Brother in law was at Camp Lejeune and is part of the group who are affected by the water. He does have CKD, but still is not in the mindset to deal with it.
I’m not retired military; but did 4 years in the USAF. I never applied for VA benefits as I heard they were income limited. Might there be some benefits that I need to look into since I’m retired now ? I’m not facing transplant at this point but would be good to know if some were available if and when I need them. Hopefully my failing kidneys outlive me! 🤷♀️
Yes, I would check out the veteran benefits. You might not be eligible for all the bennies but some for sure. Like I know there is a death benefit, burial privileges, possibly some health care but for the transplant you should be a go. I'm assuming you have a DD 214 and were honorably discharged.
Yes, my hubby served 4 years in the Navy. Although he qualifies for death benefits and related, he was told he needed to be retired from a full military career to get access to military hospitals, etc.
I hope it's true. I noticed the brochure (I assume it's the link you posted) has Tricare in its web address. I understand those who served the usual 2 or 4 year stints back in the day aren't eligible for Tricare medical insurance. So I'm assuming it's only directed to its Tricare membership. I truly hope I'm wrong. Btw, I really admire you looking out for others. And I deeply respect the way you handle life matters. You're an amazing person!
No, I don't think it's just for Tricare members. The brochure said VA patients. Just because a person is retired military doesn't necessarily mean they are eligible for all VA benefits. It's worth a call to find out.
Yes, a phone call would be good. It would be wonderful if military transplant centers, such as Walter Reed, would work with more people. I've noticed DOD partners with a lot of transplant centers, too.
You need to apply for VA Benefits immediately. Both you and your spouse (if you have one) will be entitled to benefits depending on your disability rating. This is one of the benefits you were promised when you signed up. If you don't use it, you will loose it.
call your closest VA eligibility office. There are many things that help a veteran to qualify for VA healthcare services.; it’s not just money based. 1 in 6 veterans have kidney disease in the US, compared to the general public that is 1 out of 7. There are a few transplant centers across the US for Veterans. The VA is made up of three branches: health care, benefits and the national cemetery . The health care side is beginning to focus on kidney disease in veterans- that’s great news for us vets!
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