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Irene

Photo by Tim Cope

Irene’s grandchild Terrell, age 3, has pulmonary hypertension, congestive heart failure, and is ventilator dependent.  Though Terrell’s weak immune system confines him mostly to his home, he loves sitting in his backyard.  His heart and lung problems prevent him from running around, but he still enjoys the sunshine.  He is a bright boy, already learning to write his name and count.   

At age 18 months, as Terrell was becoming more independent, his doctor ordered a special wheelchair for him.  However, Irene had to fight for seven months to obtain the wheelchair, although by federal law, children on TennCare like Terrell should receive all the medical care they need.  In her fight to obtain the medical services that Terrell needed, Irene also spoke for many other parents struggling to receive care for their children. 
           
Seven months after the doctor’s prescription for a wheelchair was submitted, Terrell still had not received his new chair.  Terrell’s mobility was limited without the medical device the doctor ordered.  It was impossible for Irene to lift Terrell, along with his oxygen tank and ventilator, suction machine, battery, and medicines – the equipment alone weighed more than 100 pounds – without the special wheelchair.  Lacking the wheelchair, Terrell had been late to doctor’s appointments, and the family was increasingly desperate. 

At this point, Irene called the Tennessee Justice Center.  The TJC worked with her to write a letter of appeal to the state’s attorney.  A few days later, Terrell was measured for his wheelchair, and soon it arrived.  Irene said, “When all this started, I didn’t know where to go or who to turn to.  With TJC on my side, I was able to stand up for Terrell and get him the care that his future depends upon.  Having TJC helping me get things done really relieved a lot of stress.”

Read client advocate Emily Einstein's thoughts on her work with the Dixon family on TJC's blog.

Read about other opposition to Tennessee's health care policies.

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