I’m a 70-year-old veteran. Fifteen years ago I was diagnosed with CLL (chronic lymphatic leukemia) attributed to exposure to Agent Orange from when I served in Viet Nam. I’m rated 100 percent disabled by the VA.
During the past 15 years, I’ve been successfully treated for my CLL through the VA. Earlier this year my CLL became unresponsive to any drugs the VA had available. My VA doctor said if it were her, she would go to the Mayo Clinic, which I did. I got to Rochester and was almost immediately admitted to intensive care.
While in the hospital I was notified by the VA that they would not approve or pay for my care at Mayo. After dozens of unanswered phone calls to the VA, I reached out to Representative Nolan. Within days Nolan arranged that the VA approve and pay for my continued care at Mayo.
The doctors at Mayo have tried several combinations of cancer drugs. The latest combination is showing promise. I’m cautiously upbeat about my prognosis.
Representative Nolan really came through for me when I needed it the most. I urge all veterans and those who care about veterans’ issues to re-elect Rick Nolan.
Jerry Lawson
Grand Marais
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