— Diego, 62
Using advocacy to reassure family, and minimize logistical and financial complexities surrounding his cancer.
Situation
Priorities
A new reality
The diagnosis
Diego, a 62-year-old engineer, moved into a 55+ community looking forward to a serene pre-retirement life. Five months in, he started noticing unusual fatigue and bruising, which led him to the ER. That’s where he got the shocking news that he had Acute Promyelocytic Leukemia (APL) — a rare, fast-developing blood cancer.
Treatment far from home
The diagnosis meant Diego had to be transferred to a Center of Excellence for a 28-day intensive induction treatment. It was two hours from his home. Being away from his support network would be tough, not only physically but also emotionally. Diego knew his family would be terrified and that he needed to prepare them for this news, and help them understand the details of his diagnosis and prognosis.
Engaging with Ardynn
During his hospital stay, Diego was reminded that his employer offered Ardynn as part of their benefits package. Diego reached out to Ardynn and was connected to a dedicated advocate who became his lifeline in navigating his new reality, providing support in a variety of areas.
Navigating care logistics and insurance
Treatment decision support
Diego’s advocate explained all his treatment options, the potential side effects of each, and how Diego could manage his condition long term. They made sure his care fit his personal and medical needs and respected his lifestyle — for example, scheduling around his community activities and family visits.
Family education
The advocate took the time to speak with Diego’s wife and children, helping to educate them about the disease, treatment options, and potential side effects. This was crucial — it educated them, helped alleviate some of their fears, and prepared them to support Diego through his journey.
Navigating insurance benefits
One of the most overwhelming aspects for Diego was dealing with insurance. The first bill he received was enormous, adding a major source of anxiety to everything else he was going through. His Ardynn advocate helped by clarifying that the amount shown was not what he owed. They explained that Diego would be charged at a negotiated rate, significantly reducing the financial burden. The advocate’s knowledge and patience in navigating the complexities of co-pays and out-of-pocket expenses were invaluable during this stressful time.
Identifying local care
After Diego was discharged, his advocate helped him find a cancer center closer to home that could manage APL, and that was in his insurance network. Centers were evaluated based on their expertise, patient outcomes, and treatment availability. Diego’s advocate also helped ensure a smooth transition from hospital care to an outpatient setting and then home — which was important to Diego’s mental and physical health.
Summing up
Through his relationship with Ardynn, Diego became able to focus less on worries about logistics and financial strain. And knowing his advocate was helping keep his family informed and supported brought him great peace of mind — which meant he was better able to focus on getting better.
This story is illustrative based on a real Ardynn case; name and likeness of the member has been changed to respect their privacy.
“While I still have a hard time believing APL is happening to me, I am beyond grateful to have my Ardynn advocate to lean on. She helped bring sense to the complexities of insurance.”
DIEGO
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