How Medicaid is a Lifesaver for Tennessee Families

My name is Dale Nix. The early years of my life were a health struggle for me and my family. Beginning quite early in life, I began experiencing respiratory issues, severe headaches, nausea, and dizziness. When I was seven, I was diagnosed with Type 1 Diabetes. “How much worse could my health get?” My family and I would soon find out. 

Soon, I felt as if I was sick most of the time. My mom, Lora (Lora to you, mom to me) arranged for an MRI. Results indicated a posterior fossa tumor on the right side of my brain. The tumor had likely been slowly growing since I was born. The tumor had expanded into my nerve canals, right ear, and brain stems. The spread of the tumor stopped my spinal fluid and caused swelling inside the brain. In a twelve-hour surgery, a neurosurgeon was able to dissect the tumor off of my cranial nerves. About 15% of the tumor remains and can grow again. 

As my journey through life continued, I began to experience nerve damage to my ears, eyes, and throat. I depend on CPAP to help me breathe at night. Central hypothyroidism, insulin resistance, and equilibrium issues have developed. I also have behavioral health issues, including behavioral outbursts, processing delays, autism with fits of rage, ODD, ADHD, and POTS. 

So, what happened next to have such a miraculous impact on my life and my family? TennCare Medicaid came to my rescue. 

I can only begin to describe the wonderful impact TennCare Medicaid has had on me and my family. In addition to my family of course, my care team now includes therapists, a neuropsychiatrist, psychiatrist, neuro-cognitive treatment team, endocrinologist, neurologist, oncologist, and audiologist.  

I am nineteen and now able to work and live somewhat independently. My parents both work full time jobs and stretch their income as much as possible to be able to help me. My family and I need help managing my needs. TennCare Medicaid gives us this assistance.  TennCare Medicaid is the lifesaver for our family. We have “peace of mind.” I know I can receive the care I need to be “healthy and productive” in society. My family and I are beyond thankful for TennCare Medicaid. 

Thank you, TennCare Medicaid.