Cancer Shadows L.B. Teacher's Future
"The couple has fought to get coverage for the medication Avastin, which inhibits tumor growth by blocking the formation of new blood vessels.
The U.S. Food and Drug Administration has approved the use of the drug for patients with metastatic colorectal cancer and certain types of lung cancer.
Although not yet approved for melanoma, the drug has been recommended by Carbone's oncologist as an effective use for that condition.
Sinnamon Carbone said that the doctor, affiliated with the Hoag Cancer Center Facility in Newport Beach, has prescribed the medication to other patients with melanoma whose insurance companies have paid for the treatment.
Blue Shield denied coverage of the medication, saying that there was insufficient evidence in peer-reviewed journals to show its safety and effectiveness in treating metastatic melanoma.
But Sinnamon said that her attorney provided numerous peer-reviewed studies that have shown its safety and effectiveness.
After exhausting appeals with Blue Shield, Sinnamon said she asked the LBUSD to override the company's decision and authorize payment for the treatment.
That request was denied in December, Sinnamon said, leaving the couple to begin fund-raising to pay for the $30,000 Avastin regimen."
If you're OUTRAGED at the state of our country's health care system, or lack there of, and would like to reach Blue Shield about this disgusting lapse of judgment, you may do so at: publicaffairs@blueshieldca.com or you may call their "media professionals":
David Seldin: (415) 229-5366
Elise Anderson: (310) 744-2660
Erica Perng: (415) 229-6171
Ashley Wilkerson: (310) 744-2661
These fucking insurance companies can SUCK IT.
"Our pleas for publicity on this issue are becoming desperate, as Tony's situation worsens each day, and his wife's financial situation has become absolutly horrific and the collectors are going to take away their home. We need to get the word out for people to go to his benefit concert, to know who he is, and to understand that he needs help."
- J.S.
If you would like to donate funds to Tony and Sinnamon Carbone immediately through Paypal, please do so to the following email address: bikridtony@aol.com
And if you're able to attend this benefit, please do so...
We're praying for you Tony and Sinnamon! We're praying and sending you every bit of love and hope and healing wishes for your fierce spirits...