Elisabeth Foley, a 51-year-old mother of three from Virginia, faced a life-changing event in June 2024 when a shark attack took most of her left arm. However, her struggles didn’t end there.
Despite having health insurance for years, her provider, Cigna Healthcare, denied coverage for the advanced prosthetic arm she desperately needs. This story highlights her journey, the challenges she faces, and her fight for independence.
A Devastating Shark Attack
In June 2024, during a family vacation in Watersound, Florida, Foley was enjoying the warm waters of the Gulf of Mexico when disaster struck. She noticed a shark heading toward her and tried to swim back to safety. The shark attacked, causing severe injuries to her pelvis and left arm.
Fearing for her children’s safety, Foley fought back, punching the shark with her left hand. Tragically, the shark bit her hand, pulling her underwater. She resurfaced to find her arm gone, leaving only exposed bone.
Her Journey to Survival
Foley’s husband and a group of medical professionals on the beach saved her life. They applied a tourniquet and treated other injuries while waiting 20 minutes for emergency services to arrive. Foley underwent 25 surgeries to recover and still has more ahead.
A Battle With Insurance
In October 2024, Foley was promised a $73,000 myoelectric prosthetic hand, a high-tech device controlled by muscle signals. Unfortunately, Cigna Healthcare later denied her claim, stating her plan doesn’t cover advanced prosthetics.
“I’ve paid for health insurance my whole life but now, when I truly need help, they won’t provide it,” said Foley, expressing frustration and disappointment.
Why a Myoelectric Hand Matters
Foley currently uses a basic, body-powered hook prosthetic, which limits her independence. A myoelectric prosthetic hand would allow her to regain control over daily tasks, providing freedom and dignity. She explained, “You don’t realize how often you use your hands until you lose one.”
Community Support
To help fund her prosthetic arm, a GoFundMe campaign has been started. The community has rallied to support her, showcasing the power of compassion in tough times.
Insurance Company’s Response
A spokesperson from Cigna Healthcare stated that while many plans cover prosthetics, they are reviewing options to include more advanced devices in their policies.
Conclusion
Elisabeth Foley’s story is a testament to resilience and the human spirit. Despite the physical and emotional challenges, she remains hopeful, fueled by community support and her determination to regain independence.
Foley’s experience highlights the need for better healthcare coverage and the importance of advocating for change.
FAQs
1. What happened to Elisabeth Foley?
She lost most of her left arm in a shark attack during a family vacation in Florida in June 2024.
2. Why did Cigna deny coverage for the prosthetic?
Cigna stated that her specific insurance plan does not cover advanced prosthetic devices like the myoelectric hand.
3. What is a myoelectric prosthetic hand?
It is a high-tech prosthetic arm controlled by electrical signals from the user’s muscles, allowing better mobility and independence.
4. How can people help Elisabeth?
A GoFundMe campaign has been launched to raise funds for her $73,000 prosthetic arm.
5. What is Cigna’s response?
Cigna is reviewing its policies to potentially expand coverage for advanced prosthetics in the future.
