When our son needed our insurance the most, Blue Cross Blue Shield was not there, denying critical genetic testing that could ensure he got the care he needed. After all the money we paid into our insurance, we were forced to rely on friends and family to pay for the genetic testing in full. I"ve started this petition to ensure no family has to look their children in the eye and know they are not getting the needed treatment because they can't afford a test. Stand with me in asking Blue Cross Blue Shield to lead by example - make genetic testing affordable for all parents.

Any parent will tell you a child is a gift. They bring so much joy into the lives they touch. As a parent you want and expect the best for your children. This is never more truer than when your child is sick. My son Easton, has undergone extensive medical treatment since he was born. We pay a pretty penny for Easton to have decent medical insurance coverage under Blue Cross Blue Shield - around $1200 a month. This does not include the copays or the hospital stays that are not fully covered. 

Recently Easton was diagnosed with a rare form of cone and rod dystrophy. This is basically where the central vision deteriorates until the point of blindness. There are hundreds of different types of cone and rod dystrophy. Blue Cross Blue Shield refused to cover any Genetic testing. Without out proper diagnosis from genetic testing, we wouldn't know which form Easton had and what to expect in his future! Different types of diagnosis also include complications with your heart, kidneys, ad other major organs. These can effect the organs at various stages in life. Without the genetic testing we would not know what organs to watch closely, what changes we can expect from Easton, or what time frame We can anticipate blindness. Without those results we couldn't properly accommodate his needs. 

Luckily we have an amazing support system and with the help of family members and fundraisers we were able to cut down the costs of Easton's testing. We were able to fully pay for the test he needed. Unfortunately insurance companies continue to find loop holes and ways to deem the test non medically necessary, because it does not "aide" in treatment or because often times there isn't a cure for the diagnosis. My heart breaks to think about all the sweet babies who don't/won't have a diagnosis, because their parents can't afford the testing. 

Something needs to be done to help the families who can't afford this cost without the help of insurance. The babies ultimately are suffering from this and that's the worst part. Average genetic testing is about $8,000 depending on the type needed. This does not include the cost of further testing if nothing shows up on the first one or the cost of testing for the parents who also made need testing done to help diagnose their children. Most companies require half of the money upfront to even start the testing process. 

Blue Cross Blue Shield has an opportunity to end the financial hardship and suffering of so many families. They need to include genetic testing in their coverage, making it affordable for average families, especially those not as lucky as us to have friends and family who could help pay out of pocket. Help by signing this petition so that way we can give children the resources they need to thrive as much as possible!