For the people in direct proximity of last month’s Boston Marathon bombing, it wasn’t just a moment of fear. It wasn’t just something that interrupted their work week or made lines longer at the airport. It was a literal life-altering moment. While we mourn the three people who lost their lives, we must not forget about the injured survivors. Sadly, many lost limbs from the explosion and they will have to learn to live a much different life.
Thankfully, the American Orthotic and Prosthetic Association, has stepped in and offered to fit many of the bombing victims.
From The Atlantic:
The American Orthotic and Prosthetic Association (AOPA) told reporters on Tuesday afternoon that it would provide prosthetics to the estimated 20 to 25 victims of the Boston bombings who lost limbs. Because the bombs were placed on the ground, many of the victims will need new legs which cost between $8,000 and $12,000 for below-the-knee prosthetics and $40,000 to $60,000 for above-the-knee devices. That means that the total cost of the all the prosthetics could be as high as $1.5 million. "The last thing that someone should have to worry about when they lose … a leg is to have adequate insurance coverage for a prosthetic device," said Kendra Calhoun, head of the Amputee Coalition.
This is a godsend for those impacted and their families. Many multi-million health insurance companies deny claims for prosthetics, basically citing any red tape fake reason they can, or if they do pay, don’t offer to pay the entire price tag. Of course, that’s assuming the victims have insurance in the first place. Medical costs often bankrupt families, shackling not only immediate members, but extended relatives, with massive debt.
It would be doubly cruel for the Marathon victims to bear a financial blow, in additional to the physical and emotional issues they are likely going to deal with for years. It should be noted, that in addition to AOPA, there are several relief funds available for the victims across the country. For more information, clink this link.
