A lifeline in the darkest of times

July 01, 2025

Warren D.'s life changed forever when he was diagnosed with cancer. But in the midst of uncertainty and fear, Warren found comfort and hope in his health plan from Florida Blue. The Central Florida small business owner navigated the complex and often overwhelming world of cancer treatment, and credits Florida Blue with connecting him to life-saving care and a team of dedicated doctors who helped him every step of the way.

Warren's journey began in November 2021, when a mysterious pain in his neck led to a closer examination by his wife, who discovered enlarged lymph nodes. With concern growing, they rushed to the emergency room, unaware of the challenges ahead. The diagnosis was stage 4 lymphoma.

"I was blown away by the level of support and care that I received through my health plan benefits*," Warren recalls. "From the initial diagnosis to the ongoing treatment, Florida Blue was with me every step of the way. They helped me navigate the system, answered my questions, and made sure that I had access to the best possible care."

Warren's intense treatment plan included six months of chemotherapy and infusions every six weeks. Despite the challenges, Warren remained determined to fight. And, he says, Florida Blue stood by him, helping alleviate some of the stress and uncertainty.

Following treatment, Warren's journey was far from over. By summer 2022, he thought he was cured, when a new positron emission tomography (PET) scan revealed the lymphoma had returned — and this time it was more aggressive. 

Once again, he says, Florida Blue demonstrated its commitment to ensuring timely, life-changing treatments are available to their members. With a new treatment plan called Chimeric Antigen Receptor T-cell (CAR-T) therapy, Warren beat his cancer.

Warren's second round of treatment was a success, and within a few months, doctors declared him cancer-free. Just when he thought he was healing, a new challenge emerged. A bout of pneumonia and bronchitis took a surprising turn, developing into a rare disorder that landed Warren back in the hospital.

"I have now what's called cryptogenic organizing pneumonia which is a complication of the CAR-T," Warren says. "Once again, Florida Blue came to the rescue by covering my extended stay in the hospital while my providers were trying to figure out how to save my life one more time."

Warren's story is an example of how Florida Blue is making a difference, every day, in the lives of members. It also shows the importance of having access to high-quality care and a caring team of doctors. Health insurance does far more than pay medical bills — it connects members to a Florida Blue team of committed and caring individuals who help them understand their care options with trusted quality providers to take care of them when they’re sick or keep them healthy in the first place.

Florida Blue understands that every member's journey is unique. With more than 80 years of serving Floridians, they’re committed to providing personalized health solutions and making sure everyone has access to the high-quality care and support they need and deserve.

"I'm grateful and I just want to go on and make the best of every day — being a good influence on my son, family, businesses, and just love life fully," Warren says. 

Disclaimers:

Florida Blue is a trade name of Blue Cross and Blue Shield of Florida, Inc., an Independent Licensee of the Blue Cross and Blue Shield Association.

**Warren’s health benefits are included in a BlueOptions PPO plan. Policies have limitations and exclusions.