Just a few days after finishing her PhD and while preparing to move back home to Minnesota, Sandra slipped and broke her ankle.

Because of the timing, Sandra's medical insurance coverage as a UO graduate employee had just ended (which also means her income ended during this time of major transition). Fortunately, she was able to get retroactive Cobra coverage for that small window of time when the accident happened... but at a significant monthly cost.

Additionally, what should have been a straightforward outpatient surgery has turned into three+ weeks in hospital and now inpatient rehab.

The full extent of Sandra's recovery and medical bills is yet unknown; however, what we do know is that insurance won't cover the cost of specialized transport between her rehab center and post-surgery check-ups at the hospital (her condition is still such that she needs qualified medical support and not just rides from friends right now), which are at least a $100 out of pocket each time.

If you can spare any extra funds, it would be deeply appreciated and help alleviate some of the financial stressors this situation has brought for her. This has been a difficult time for Sandra--a time when she should be already packed and moved out of her apartment, celebrating her accomplishments, and planning her next chapter after four years of incredibly hard work.

If you cannot help financially (times is tough amiright?) but might be able to offer support/help in other ways--especially after she's discharged, tho when is still tbd--such as helping to pack up her apartment, meal/grocery deliveries while still stuck in Eugene, rides to/from appointments when she's more mobile but still unable to drive, or other needs that will undoubtedly arise in the coming weeks, please reach out to me (erica at [email protected]) or her ([email protected] or [email protected]) directly!

In community 💜