In June of 1997 Vladimir Konstantinov's life would forever change. After a limousine crash left him in a coma he has made an impossibly long yet incredible recovery many thought would not be possible.

Now Vladdy's life, and the life of other catastrophically injured people may once again be in danger. On July 1st of this year, a provision in legislation passed in 2019 to lower insurance rates, has cut reimbursement for care of the catastrophically injured - like Konstantinov by 45%. To quote WXYZ - Detroit "That means that under state statute, money paid from the Michigan Catastrophic Claims Association for things like physical therapy, attendant care, nursing care, and medical supplies is being cut 45%."

“Currently, we have not been paid for any claims billed after the implementation of the changes. We have changed the codes under which the claims are billed and are waiting to see what reimbursement rate we are paid. In addition to the delays in payment, we are fearful we will be paid at a rate that will not sustain our business,” said Darby Anderson, Executive Vice President & Chief Strategy Officer of Arcadia Home Care, the company that provides 24-hour attendant care for Vladimir Konstantinov in a statement.

“His care is 24 hours a day. It isn’t just a random amount. It is prescribed by his physical medicine and rehab doctor,” said Krumm.

“He has a very small amount of money,” said Bellanca, explaining that Konstantinov cannot afford to pay to make up for the potential loss in coverage.

Vladdy has done so much for the city, it is time we work to repay him as best we can. Now there is a way to remedy this issue for Vladdy and other like him. Push the Michigan State Legislature to pass HOUSE BILL NO. 4486.

This bill would restore the reimbursement medical facilities get for treating the catastrophically injured and others to it's previous rate. That way the care that these people require every day to try and lead a normal life can continue.

Vladdy did not ask for his injuries. He deserves to live and the Michigan Legislature needs to pass House Bill No. 4486. Please sign and share our petition to make our voices heard!

- The Grind Line Podcast and Red Wings Fans Everywhere