RALEIGH, N.C. — For new moms who have had a mastectomy there is not insurance coverage or subsidy to help them feed their newborn. 

Anna Crollman, of the My Cancer Chic blog, lives in the Triangle and had a double mastectomy at age 27. When she had her son almost two years ago, she realized the support for this issue was scarce. 

What You Need To Know

The ACA covers breast pumps for new moms

There is no coverage for formula or donor milk for moms who have undergone a mastectomy

A change.org petition is seeking to change the policy gap

“We started budgeting pretty far in advance, trying to save money for at least the first year of his life to help with both daycare costs and the formula as well, which is an added cost not everyone has to face,” Crollman added. 

Under the Affordable Care Act, women are able to get a breast pump and supplies at no extra cost through their insurance provider. However, there is not an equal offering for donor milk or formula. 

There is now a push to create a change when it comes to the insurance policy gap. 

“I think the more we see young people getting cancer, the more prevalent the situation is,” Crollman said. “It is so joyful and wonderful to see cancer survivors going on to have families and children after cancer, but with that brings new challenges that I think we are now ready to meet and ready to meet head on with some change.”

To sign the petition to address this insurance policy gap, click here.