Franclim Gomes
Moreira (Brazil)
Brazilian National Association for Diabetes
My name is Franclim Gomes Moreira, I am 69 years old and currently retired. I discovered that I had diabetes when I was 35. Shortly thereafter, I was diagnosed with cardiovascular problems and underwent an angioplasty. I was also evaluated by an ophthalmologist who confirmed that I was at an initial stage of diabetic retinopathy.
Thanks to careful follow-up, these complications were identified early and could be treated, preventing more severe consequences. However, my kidneys were extremely weak, I was losing too much protein through my urine and my creatinine level was very high. After trying many different medications and dosages, the doctors at the Brazilian National Association for Diabetes (ANAD) finally prescribed me a treatment that worked and stabilised my blood glucose levels.
There was only one problem: after six months of treatment, I could not afford my medication anymore. My doctor filled in innumerable forms, reports and receipts to be submitted to the Ministry of Public Health for the “provision of high cost medication”, but my request was rejected twice. I was desperate, as I did not want to go back to living without control, running to hospitals, being afraid of dying and my family being constantly worried.
Asking ANAD’s lawyer for guidance, he helped me to win my case and I was informed that the government would provide me with the medicine I required. Thanks to this intervention , I’m healthy today! The fight isn’t easy, but I know that I have a place to go for treatment and support. I wish that everybody with diabetes knew that they must fight for their rights.