@mjwhearts22
I feel for you and agree the middle class is always in a tight spot. Like you, I stopped working due to cancer. I am taking Kisqali (similar to Verzenio and Ibrance). Employer group insurance is great for meds because they are included in the annual out-of-pocket limit so affordable. Medicare part D, not so affordable for expensive meds since there is no out-of-pocket limit and supplement plans don't include meds.

Check into the financial requirements for Kisqali (manufacture Novartis) and Ibrance (manufacturer Pfizer) assistance programs. If you qualify, maybe your oncologist will consider switching you to one of the other similar meds. At first glance, it seems your income can be a little higher for Kisqali than Verzenio so if you were close to qualifying for Verzenio, maybe you'll qualify for one of the similar meds.

The oncology office told me there are also third party grants for financial assistance, but because breast cancer is so prevalent, when a grant becomes available, it is usually gone in minutes. You can try to be the first one to grab one of those. Not sure how you find them. Your oncology office should have a staff member that helps with this stuff.

One other thing about Kisqali, is apparently everyone can qualify for one free month. Maybe Verzenio is the same while you're weighing your options?

Remember to keep track of all your medical expenses for tax deductions if your expenses are high enough to meet the requirements. Best of luck!

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