Yoon Seong-rye, member of the CMM Christian Medical Mutual Aid Society, resident of Seattle
First of all, I would like to thank God. I have received so much help through the Christian Medical Mutual Aid Society.
It’s been 23 years since I came to the U.S. General insurance is too expensive for me to afford, so I’ve been a member of the Christian Medical Mutual Aid Association for about 20 years now. At first, I signed up for the Bronze plan, which had the lowest membership fee, but a few years ago I switched to the Gold Plus plan.
Although the Christian Medical Mutual Aid Society isn't insurance, it seems absolutely essential in case we ever need to go to the hospital.
About 10 years ago, I didn’t even realize my appendix had burst, so even though I was in pain, I endured it and didn’t go to the hospital. But something just didn’t feel right, so I went to a nearby hospital, where I was immediately referred to a larger hospital. After a quick examination, I was taken straight to the operating room.
When the doctor told me that three days had passed since my appendix had ruptured and that I might even lose my life, I was worried, and I also wondered how much the hospital bill would be.
After the surgery went well and I came out, the doctor laughed and joked that if I had been just a little late, I would have gone to heaven.
The medical bills for the tests and surgery totaled about $50,000. However, I spoke with the Christian Medical Assistance Association to discuss ways to reduce the costs, and by continuing to communicate with the hospital, we were able to negotiate the most reasonable price. I was grateful that the U.S. hospital was willing to adjust the medical bills.
A few days after I was discharged, hospital bills started arriving from various places. The total came to $38,000, and I was terrified when I saw the amount.
However, thanks to the support of members through the Christian Medical Mutual Aid Association, we were able to cover the costs we couldn’t afford on our own. The hospital bills for the surgery were taken care of, and two years ago, my husband was also able to undergo a colonoscopy through the “Well-being Care” program for Gold Plus members.
We would like to express our gratitude to all our members who pray with us during difficult times, to the staff of the Christian Medical Mutual Aid Society who respond to us with kindness, and to God, who watches over and protects us.
I pray that you will always be filled with the Lord’s grace and love.