TRANSPLANT DENIED

I was appalled that HMSA denied Kimberly Reyes a liver transplant, due
to marijuana use ("Transplant denied by HMSA," Tribune-Herald).

I understand completely that abusing your body is inflicted on your
own accord. I also know very well that people can change. This
transplant could have given Kimberly Reyes a reason to change her
lifestyle, find a purpose, perhaps spirituality, and would have been a
productive part of society. I truly believe that money is a key part
of the decision made by HMSA, not some stipulation written in a manual
that is mailed out to patients of HMSA, or any other medical insurance
carriers.

Those manuals are probably rarely read or understood by the
recipients. For HMSA to approve the transplant and then to take it
away after only three days, due to traces of THC, is not only
unforgivable, but only reinforces that money is the issue here. The
fact that Kimberly did not have a marijuana certificate, is another
reason to deny her, money again. My heart goes out to her five
children, her mother, and all those who loved her. HMSA should explain
this decision, instead of the famous "no comment."

Kimberly's family will never know what could have become of her life
after this transplant. It is like an addict who can change their lives
and become someone you would like to know. So, basically HMSA is
saying, if you do not maintain a perfect lifestyle you are disposable.
What a heartbreaking "real life" story.

Timothy Palmer

Hilo