Marijuana Policy Project

I was appalled that HMSA denied Kimberly Reyes a liver transplant, due to marijuana use ("Transplant denied by HMSA," Tribune-Herald).

I understand completely that abusing your body is inflicted on your own accord.  I also know very well that people can change.  This transplant could have given Kimberly Reyes a reason to change her lifestyle, find a purpose, perhaps spirituality, and would have been a productive part of society.  I truly believe that money is a key part of the decision made by HMSA, not some stipulation written in a manual that is mailed out to patients of HMSA, or any other medical insurance carriers.

Those manuals are probably rarely read or understood by the recipients.  For HMSA to approve the transplant and then to take it away after only three days, due to traces of THC, is not only unforgivable, but only reinforces that money is the issue here.  The fact that Kimberly did not have a marijuana certificate, is another reason to deny her, money again.  My heart goes out to her five children, her mother, and all those who loved her.  HMSA should explain this decision, instead of the famous "no comment."

Kimberly's family will never know what could have become of her life after this transplant.  It is like an addict who can change their lives and become someone you would like to know.  So, basically HMSA is saying, if you do not maintain a perfect lifestyle you are disposable.  What a heartbreaking "real life" story.