I'm getting a donated BiPap

Altered_Ego · Post by **Altered_Ego** » Tue Nov 07, 2006 2:32 pm

I submitted an application through Awake in America, and they approved me to get a donated BiPap machine.

http://www.awakeinamerica.org/

There are only two problems:

1.) I need to figure how to get the $67.50 required for shipping and Admin costs.

2.) I need to get a local company to receive the unit, and be sure it's setup properly.

I called my local Apria office, but they've never heard of such a thing, and didn't want to do it.

Now I have to call their corporate office, long distance, and see what they say.

Has anyone else had experience with this situation? Could you recommend a company in the Portland Maine area to do this?

dllfo · Post by **dllfo** » Tue Nov 07, 2006 3:55 pm

Is it a respironics auto bipap?

Titrator · Post by **Titrator** » Tue Nov 07, 2006 4:47 pm

Congratulations... When people ask what to do with thier second hand machine I always give them awake in America's web address. They are doing a great service to our nation.

Regards,

Ted

Altered_Ego · Post by **Altered_Ego** » Tue Nov 07, 2006 4:53 pm

Thanks. I'm still trying to sort out some details.

It looks like this year will finish with plenty of good news... and one other matter will resolve itself in the coming year.

christinequilts · Post by **christinequilts** » Tue Nov 07, 2006 5:13 pm

I just posted to a similar thread over at the ASAA board. I'll give you the same recommendations: Try to find a small, regional, preferable locally owned, DME to help you out. They are usually more willing to donate a little of their professional time then a big company. The big DMEs build their business on their size; where the smaller ones have to rely on good service & repeat business more so, and even though you are not a paying customer now, you probably will be in the future. The sleep lab were you had your sleep study would also be a good option, especially if it has a DME. I know when I obtained my own personal BiPAP STD originally, both my local DME, who I had a relationship with from renting other medical equipment, and the DME at my doctors sleep lab went over my machine for me. I didn't realize the lab DME was going to do it & by the time he had everything set up, I didn't have the heart to tell him my other DME had done the same thing a few days earlier ...he even gave me a case for it too.

If you strike out on your own, I would recommend contacting your local Center for Independent Living- they help people with various disabilities to obtain services they need. One advantage they would have, is they probably have worked with a lot of DMEs with other unusual cases. They may also be able to help with the shipping cost or help you identify other possible sources of funding. The first one I would suggest would be local churches, you don't always have to be a member to get assistance. Most would love that you have taken charge of the situation yourself & that its a small, one time cost for a long term benefit, versus paying for a prescription medication or rent that will only last 30 days.

Good luck!

Altered_Ego · Post by **Altered_Ego** » Tue Nov 07, 2006 6:35 pm

Thanks for the input.

I may make a few other calls tomorrow.... I was pretty wasted today since I had my divorce finalized today.

christinequilts · Post by **christinequilts** » Tue Nov 07, 2006 7:42 pm

I can imagine today wasn't one of your best days, but at least you get to look forward to starting on BiPAP soon and you will be starting this new chapter of your life with a lot better odds.

Do you know which BiPAP it is yet? WHen you finally get it, ask any questions you want- I've been dealing with BiPAP ST for 3 years now.

Altered_Ego · Post by **Altered_Ego** » Tue Nov 07, 2006 9:01 pm

Actually, no I don't have any specifics yet... the guy who I talk to on the phone is a bit difficult to talk with... so I get what info I need for this step of the process and move on.

Yes, it is looking like this year will end well for me... and the New Year will be even better.