In the state of Illinois, we have a program entitled "Illinois Cares RX". Eligible low income seniors can register to get help with their drug costs and their Medicare Part D premiums. Go to the Illinois state website http://www.illinoiscaresrx.com for the eligibility requirements and to enroll. In my Mom's case, Illinois pays her Part D premiums, she has no deductible and she pays $5 for name brand and $2 for generic drugs (30 day supply). The state covers costs up to $1750 per year. Then there is a cost sharing plan which, along with Part D keeps her costs low. She is on 10 prescription drugs with a monthly retail price of more than $500. Her monthly costs, at the end of the benefit year when cost sharing kicks in are around $100.

Diagnosed 7/03 with Stage 3 Tonsil SCC/2 positive nodes. 7 wks radiation -- 2 rounds chemo (cisplatin) -- 5 months feeding tube. Still cancer free.