Entrepreneur is self-proclaimed "ambassador for CHM", By Katherine White, Arden, N.C.

*Editor’s note: This information was published in the November 2022 issue of Heartfelt Magazine, CHM’s monthly magazine that provides CHM membership-related tips and tricks, medical advice from doctors, testimonies from CHM members, and more. Please refer to the CHM Guidelines and applicable web pages for the most up-to-date information regarding CHM membership, sharing eligibility, and ministry news.*

After joining the entrepreneurial world in 2020, I was diagnosed with uterine fibroid tumors which caused severe pain for months. Due to the pandemic, my hysterectomy was delayed.

Eight weeks after my surgery, I was back to 100%. Until my appendix ruptured. I thought I had a violent case of food poisoning—until it lasted three days.

Because of complications, I was admitted to the hospital and put on IV antibiotics for five days before I was sent into surgery. When I woke from what was scheduled as a laparoscopic appendectomy, I learned I’d been through an open abdominal surgery, appendectomy, and bowel resection.

I was discharged but readmitted less than a week later with a massive infection. I had a second surgery, and a wound vac placed.

This was one of the most difficult times in my life. I’d been heathy and strong just days before—but suddenly I was fighting for my life.

Despite the complications, I was comforted as a CHM member knowing I needn’t waste energy worrying about the costs. I didn’t think about much more than survival, and what a gift to be able to focus where it was needed most—healing.

God stayed with me throughout my struggle, and I was always at peace. He taught me how strong, resilient, and fragile I am all at the same time. Every day is a gift and—in a second—life  can change dramatically. 

Presently, I’m doing much better, but recovery has been more complicated than I would have ever expected. My body feels completely different than it did before my surgeries, and it’s taking a lot of time to get to know the new me. I’m still limited by my shortened digestive tract and weakened core, but I’m learning what to eat and gradually getting stronger.

I went from skeptical to a believer when my submitted bills were reimbursed in full! The Member Portal makes submitting medical bills so simple.

I absolutely recommend CHM to everyone I encounter: CHM provides an invaluable option for entrepreneurs like us to manage healthcare expenses. My illnesses put CHM to the test, and they exceeded expectations. Not only did they do what they said they would, but they have caring staff and a network of supportive members.

After my experience, I consider myself an ambassador for CHM because I can’t tell my story without including CHM. I’m so grateful to be a part of the CHM family.