Community Benefit Stories

Help During the Worst of Times

Tracy was at work when she developed an excruciating headache. Concerned co-workers drove the 28-year-old home and her parents rushed her to the emergency department at Froedtert Hospital. Doctors found bleeding in her brain, caused by a rare type of brain tumor. Tracy underwent two surgeries and was hospitalized for about a month. Her parents arranged for a medical leave with her employer.

When she was well enough to return to work, her employer told her she wasn’t needed. When she applied for unemployment compensation, Tracy learned her employer had classified her as a voluntary termination so she wasn’t eligible for unemployment compensation or COBRA insurance coverage. Tracy and her parents fought to get the classification changed and eventually won. However, the COBRA coverage for inpatient care was limited and with a month-long hospital stay, the funds were quickly exhausted.

A financial counselor at Froedtert Hospital suggested Tracy apply for the hospital’s charity care program to assist with her remaining bills. To date, she has received more than $90,000 in free care through the program.

“Froedtert was there for us during a very tough time, not only with the medical care Tracy needed but also an answer to our financial worries,” said Tracy’s dad.

Tracy recently completed radiation therapy as additional protection against the tumor. She hopes to be able to find a job and start working again soon.

Last Review Date: Oct. 23, 2009

Online Editor(s): Richard Petre