Financial instability is stressful, but it is something that each of us will face in some capacity and hopefully overcome. However, instability combined with a forever altered lifestyle due to a medical crisis is not.
In September, GRACE care managers met with a client who was diagnosed with a blood clot in the brain which caused him to become blind. Blindness is a common symptom of a blood clot in the brain, and recovery is possible, but on a timeline of months, not weeks.
After this life-changing diagnosis, the client almost immediately faced more distress. His marriage, unfortunately, deteriorated and he was left alone with limited resources and he became significantly dependent on others, including his best friend and his best friend’s wife. They helped him as much as possible but ultimately they reached out to GRACE on his behalf for our help.
An application for Social Security Disability had been filed, but due to the lengthy process time, GRACE was able to step in and bring some much needed immediate stability. GRACE provided him with emergency assistance with his rent and utility bill.
Due to his shifting situation however, adjusting to his new normal will take time. To help through this adjustment period, this client was also given extended access to the Food Pantry. As he remains connected with GRACE for the next year, GRACE is thankful for our collaborative partnerships and volunteer medical providers who can further assist in this situation, as needed.
