Trying to Maintain Money and Mental Health

[Livi5072]

My spouse received a kidney transplant in November 2022. He was on dialysis for 18 months and also developed diabetic retinopathy which requires 5 surgeries prior to and after his transplant. He wants to work and going on disability would be terrible for his mental health. We are having trouble financially because he has run out of sick time and his short term disability insurance was cancelled. Social Workers and transplant coordinator are not helping us try to apply for grants and funding. Any ideas or help?

[LisaSnow]

Sorry to hear about your worries. What happened to his disability insurance? I personally have never heard of any grants or funding other than social security disability (in the USA) and it is only granted to disabled individuals which transplant patients do not count as. What types are you thinking of?

[Darlenia]

I, too, am a spouse to a diabetic hubby with a transplant. I really feel for you as you try to help your spouse through his challenges to a possible job or other rewarding outcome. I have no idea where you live, I presume you're living the US. If so, I suggest looking for a One-Stop Career Center in your area. These are federally supported public employment offices set up by Workforce Investment Act of 1998. Every state has these centers - the ones near me (mid-Atlantic region), are generally located in public buildings, inside community colleges, and so on. They're multi-purpose in that not only do that have career advisors who find jobs for you, they also can provide training monies if needed, etc. One generally sets up an appointment with a workforce counselor who then jumps into action for you. I had direct dealings with One-Stops since I ran a business program at a local school and often received One-Stop candidates for training. Their counselors are very professional; the facilities are immaculate and well maintained with job postings, a small library, etc. Your hubby may want to give them a call. Nothing ventured, nothing gained.