The Broken Soldier

I got a return receipt first-class letter from the Guard today. It was the neurosurgeon consult we already got. Your tax dollars hard at work.

I’m betting the return receipt and confirmation doubles as an ass-covering device of sorts. I’m confused why else they’d go that extra mile. I’ve never complained about not receiving authorizations when they’re approved. Strike that, I complained once: When the approval for physical therapy sat for a month before Sheila Marolla in Levin’s office told me about it. I’ve complained about not getting authorization for certain care, and authorizations that are too vague about what care is covered to be very helpful.

Yesterday I got a notice from my bank of a deposit. Those are always nice. I assumed it was from the Army. I’ve been expecting some reimbursement for the expenses incurred traveling to Fort Knox, KY for an unusable MRI, as well as two days of active pay for the same. Instead the Army deposited $5.95 in my account.

“Why are you complaining young man?” is a question you may be asking yourself. Well, I’m complaining because my wife and I spent close to $500 of our own money up front to make that useless and unnecessary appointment. Because of that, and because we’re living on one income and have not received additional months of incapacitation pay, my wife and I are put in the unenviable position of choosing between making our mortgage payment and paying for my pain and depression medications.

Run right out to your local recruiter kids. This too can be yours.