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Hospital Bills to Wilderness Survival: Real-Life Stories That Could Save Your Money or Your Life
This week we cover topics from watching Hospital Bills and how to save money to news of Wilderness survival and new policy, record-breaking hunts to mythbusting jellyfish. Real-life stories that could save your life or keep money in your wallet. Join radio hosts Rebecca Wanner aka ‘BEC’ and Jeff ‘Tigger’ Erhardt (Tigger & BEC) with the latest in Outdoors & Western Lifestyle News!
How to Save Money on Hospital and Insurance Bills — Even When You're Fully Covered
When you're diagnosed with a serious illness like cancer, the last thing you want to worry about is money. But between insurance coverage, hospital billing departments, and ongoing treatments, out-of-pocket costs can spiral — even when you're fully insured.
In 2021, I was diagnosed with cancer. I underwent 12 rounds of chemotherapy and 8 weeks of daily radiation. While my insurance was a blessing, I quickly discovered that being covered doesn’t mean you’re not vulnerable to costly billing mistakes — ones that could cost you thousands if you're not paying attention.
Why You Must Compare Your EOB With Hospital Bills — Line by Line
One of the most important lessons I learned: Always compare your Explanation of Benefits (EOB) from your insurance provider to the bill from your hospital or healthcare provider.
Here’s what happened to me:
I called my insurance company, who confirmed they hadn’t received claims for those charges. Then I contacted the hospital’s billing department and was told each time that it was a “mistake,” and they would resubmit.
Had I not caught this, I could have paid over $10,000 in wrongful charges — with little chance of a refund later.
Pro Tip: Don’t Automatically Pay Medical Bills Without Verifying
It’s tempting to just pay the bill and be done with it — especially when you're overwhelmed and just trying to get through treatments. But trust your gut.
Instead:
Always Ask: "Has This Been Submitted to My Insurance?"
Make it your mantra when speaking to any healthcare billing department:
“Has this claim been submitted to my insurance company?”
If they say no or “it was a mistake,” ask for proof of submission and a timeline. It can take weeks or even months for a corrected bill to show up — so document every call and keep all emails or confirmations.
Human Error and AI Mistakes Are More Common Than You Think
In today’s digital world, hospitals and insurers often rely on automated systems for billing. But that doesn’t mean the process is error-free. In fact, it may be worse.
You might encounter:
That’s why your personal oversight is essential — especially when you're dealing with ongoing care.
How to Protect Yourself from Costly Healthcare Billing Mistakes
Here’s a quick checklist to help you save money and protect your finances during a medical journey:
Final Thoughts: Be Your Own Advocate — It Could Save You Thousands
Between AI systems, human error, and overloaded billing departments, even those with full insurance coverage can fall into financial traps. The stress of calling weekly to fix these issues took a toll, but in the end, it saved me thousands of dollars.
The bottom line?
Be proactive. Be persistent. And never assume a bill is correct just because it looks official.
If you're navigating medical bills or complex treatments, you're not alone. If I hadn’t spoken up, I would have unknowingly overpaid by thousands. Don’t be afraid to double-check, question, and challenge what doesn’t look right.
Your health matters — and so does your wallet.
14-Year-Old Girl Makes Pennsylvania Hunting History with Record Bull Elk
We’ve got a record-breaking hunting story that’s as heartwarming as it is impressive. According to Outdoor Life, fourteen-year-old Samantha Bartlett just became the youngest hunter ever to tag a bull elk in Pennsylvania — and she did it with a single, well-placed shot from her crossbow!
It all happened in the early morning hours of September 16, deep in the mountains of north-central PA. Samantha and her dad, Noel, had already spent three long days hiking and hunting, holding out for the right bull. On the fourth day, it finally came together. After hearing two bulls fighting at dawn, Samantha and her guide crept through tall grass and waited. With a few cow calls, a massive bull came trotting in.
At 40 yards, Samantha took the shot — and nailed it. The 6x7 bull elk went down within 100 yards, and the rest is history. The animal was estimated at 800 pounds, and the rack green-scored at 310 inches.
Getting the bull out? That was a whole different story. The team dragged it downhill for four hours — no vehicles allowed — proving once again that the hunt doesn’t end with the shot.
Her bull was officially checked at a game station in Benezette, where state officials confirmed Samantha's place in the record books.
This big moment was made possible by a lucky draw for a limited bull elk tag — and by a new law allowing Sunday hunting in Pennsylvania for the first time, giving young hunters like Samantha more opportunities.
What’s next for her? She’s got her sights set on the “Pennsylvania Quad Trophy” — elk, black bear, turkey, and deer — all with a crossbow. Talk about ambitious!
Moral of the story? Don't underestimate a determined young hunter and her crossbow.
Reference: https://www.outdoorlife.com/hunting/youngest-hunter-bull-elk-pennsylvania/
14-Year-Old Becomes the Youngest Hunter to Ever Tag a Bull Elk in Pennsylvania
Military Training Helps Missing Hunter Survive Winter Storm in Colorado Backcountry
According to Summit Daily, A 57-year-old hunter from Illinois is safe today, thanks to a combination of military experience, calm thinking, and solid preparation — after spending two freezing nights alone in the rugged backcountry of Jackson County, Colorado.
On Monday, Sept. 22, the man became separated from his group near the Three Sisters Trailhead in the Rawah Wilderness. The last anyone heard from him was a text saying he was lost, just before 3:30 p.m. His phone later went dark, and with winter weather rolling in, it was too dangerous for search teams to head out that night.
By the next day, over 20 agencies — including Search and Rescue teams, deputies, and wildlife officials — launched a full-scale search in snowy, cold, and windy conditions. Air support was grounded, and rescuers battled through the backcountry on foot.
Despite the brutal storm and tough terrain, the search effort continued into a second day. Then, on the afternoon of Wednesday, Sept. 24, hope came from above: the hunter was able to place several 911 calls, helping rescuers pinpoint his location.
At around 1 p.m., air support spotted him — alive and in good health.
So how did he make it? The hunter credited his survival to his military training, staying calm, building a fire, and using his sleeping bag and layers to stay warm.
A big thanks goes out to Jackson and Grand County responders, Colorado Parks and Wildlife, search dog teams, and all others who helped pull off this dramatic rescue.
Moral of the story? Being prepared can make all the difference — especially when Mother Nature has other plans.
Reference: https://www.summitdaily.com/news/missing-hunters-military-experience-and-supplies-keep-him-alive-in-jackson-county-backcountry/
Tragic Lightning Strike Kills Two Missing Elk Hunters in Colorado Wilderness
According to the Kiowa County Press, Wyoming is at the forefront of a renewed push to remove Endangered Species Act protections from grizzly bears in the Greater Yellowstone Ecosystem. Representative Harriet Hageman has introduced the Grizzly Bear State Management Act of 2025, which supporters say reflects decades of conservation success.
Grizzly numbers in the region have rebounded from just a few hundred in the 1970s to nearly 1,000 today, meeting recovery targets set back in 1993. Advocates argue it's time to return management to the states, allowing for more flexible and responsive action on local issues — especially as livestock conflicts rise. Last year, grizzlies killed 91 cattle in Wyoming, the highest number on record.
The bill also aims to cut through federal red tape, reinstating a Trump-era delisting rule and blocking future legal challenges that have stalled similar efforts. Supporters say it will free up resources at the U.S. Fish and Wildlife Service and help speed up energy development and wildlife responses.
While environmental groups warn that grizzlies still face genetic and habitat threats, Wyoming leaders say the bear has recovered — and state wildlife agencies are ready to manage them responsibly. Wyoming’s stance? Grizzlies have recovered. It’s time to let states take the reins.
Reference: https://kiowacountypress.net/content/wyoming-leading-charge-delist-greater-yellowstone-grizzlies
Rare “Pink Meanie” Jellyfish Swarm Texas Beaches — What to Know and How to Treat a Sting
If you’re heading to the Texas coast, watch your step — a surprising surge of rare pink meanie jellyfish has marine scientists scratching their heads.
These jellyfish are no joke: they can weigh up to 50 pounds and their tentacles can stretch as long as 70 feet. From Port Aransas to Corpus Christi, beachgoers are spotting more of them than ever before.
Marine biologist Jace Tunnell from Texas A&M University-Corpus Christi says it’s unlike anything he’s seen in years of beachcombing. “I grew up on the beach and had never seen one until this year,” he said.
The “pink meanie” was only officially recognized in 2011 and is known for its cotton candy color and its appetite for other jellyfish — especially moon jellies, which are currently blooming in Gulf waters.
What to Do If You Get Stung
While the sting isn’t life-threatening, it can hurt — lasting about 10 minutes with red marks that stay for a couple of days. Here’s how to treat it:
Experts say these jellyfish likely won’t stick around — once cooler weather hits, both moon jellies and pink meanies are expected to disappear from Texas shores.
Reference: https://www.foxnews.com/travel/surge-rare-jellyfish-sightings-across-multiple-beaches-stumps-experts
OUTDOORS FIELD REPORTS & COMMENTS
We want to hear from you! If you have any questions, comments, or stories to share about bighorn sheep, outdoor adventures, or wildlife conservation, don’t hesitate to reach out. Call or text us at 305-900-BEND (305-900-2363), or send an email to [email protected]. Stay connected by following us on social media at Facebook/Instagram @thebendshow or by subscribing to The Bend Show on YouTube. Visit our website at TheBendShow.com for more exciting content and updates!
https://thebendshow.com/
https://www.facebook.com/thebendshow
WESTERN LIFESTYLE & THE OUTDOORS
Jeff ‘Tigger’ Erhardt & Rebecca ‘BEC’ Wanner are passionate news broadcasters who represent the working ranch world, rodeo, and the Western way of life. They are also staunch advocates for the outdoors and wildlife conservation. As outdoorsmen themselves, Tigger and BEC provide valuable insight and education to hunters, adventurers, ranchers, and anyone interested in agriculture and conservation.
With a shared love for the outdoors, Tigger & BEC are committed to bringing high-quality beef and wild game from the field to your table. They understand the importance of sharing meals with family, cooking the fruits of your labor, and making memories in the great outdoors. Through their work, they aim to educate and inspire those who appreciate God’s Country and life on the land.
United by a common mission, Tigger & BEC offer a glimpse into the life beyond the beaten path and down dirt roads. They’re here to share knowledge, answer your questions, and join you in your own success story. Adventure awaits around the bend. With The Outdoors, the Western Heritage, Rural America, and Wildlife Conservation at the forefront, Tigger and BEC live this lifestyle every day.
To learn more about Tigger & BEC’s journey and their passion for the outdoors, visit TiggerandBEC.com.
https://tiggerandbec.com/
View all episodes
By Rebecca WannerThis week we cover topics from watching Hospital Bills and how to save money to news of Wilderness survival and new policy, record-breaking hunts to mythbusting jellyfish. Real-life stories that could save your life or keep money in your wallet. Join radio hosts Rebecca Wanner aka ‘BEC’ and Jeff ‘Tigger’ Erhardt (Tigger & BEC) with the latest in Outdoors & Western Lifestyle News!
How to Save Money on Hospital and Insurance Bills — Even When You're Fully Covered
When you're diagnosed with a serious illness like cancer, the last thing you want to worry about is money. But between insurance coverage, hospital billing departments, and ongoing treatments, out-of-pocket costs can spiral — even when you're fully insured.
In 2021, I was diagnosed with cancer. I underwent 12 rounds of chemotherapy and 8 weeks of daily radiation. While my insurance was a blessing, I quickly discovered that being covered doesn’t mean you’re not vulnerable to costly billing mistakes — ones that could cost you thousands if you're not paying attention.
Why You Must Compare Your EOB With Hospital Bills — Line by Line
One of the most important lessons I learned: Always compare your Explanation of Benefits (EOB) from your insurance provider to the bill from your hospital or healthcare provider.
Here’s what happened to me:
I called my insurance company, who confirmed they hadn’t received claims for those charges. Then I contacted the hospital’s billing department and was told each time that it was a “mistake,” and they would resubmit.
Had I not caught this, I could have paid over $10,000 in wrongful charges — with little chance of a refund later.
Pro Tip: Don’t Automatically Pay Medical Bills Without Verifying
It’s tempting to just pay the bill and be done with it — especially when you're overwhelmed and just trying to get through treatments. But trust your gut.
Instead:
Always Ask: "Has This Been Submitted to My Insurance?"
Make it your mantra when speaking to any healthcare billing department:
“Has this claim been submitted to my insurance company?”
If they say no or “it was a mistake,” ask for proof of submission and a timeline. It can take weeks or even months for a corrected bill to show up — so document every call and keep all emails or confirmations.
Human Error and AI Mistakes Are More Common Than You Think
In today’s digital world, hospitals and insurers often rely on automated systems for billing. But that doesn’t mean the process is error-free. In fact, it may be worse.
You might encounter:
That’s why your personal oversight is essential — especially when you're dealing with ongoing care.
How to Protect Yourself from Costly Healthcare Billing Mistakes
Here’s a quick checklist to help you save money and protect your finances during a medical journey:
Final Thoughts: Be Your Own Advocate — It Could Save You Thousands
Between AI systems, human error, and overloaded billing departments, even those with full insurance coverage can fall into financial traps. The stress of calling weekly to fix these issues took a toll, but in the end, it saved me thousands of dollars.
The bottom line?
Be proactive. Be persistent. And never assume a bill is correct just because it looks official.
If you're navigating medical bills or complex treatments, you're not alone. If I hadn’t spoken up, I would have unknowingly overpaid by thousands. Don’t be afraid to double-check, question, and challenge what doesn’t look right.
Your health matters — and so does your wallet.
14-Year-Old Girl Makes Pennsylvania Hunting History with Record Bull Elk
We’ve got a record-breaking hunting story that’s as heartwarming as it is impressive. According to Outdoor Life, fourteen-year-old Samantha Bartlett just became the youngest hunter ever to tag a bull elk in Pennsylvania — and she did it with a single, well-placed shot from her crossbow!
It all happened in the early morning hours of September 16, deep in the mountains of north-central PA. Samantha and her dad, Noel, had already spent three long days hiking and hunting, holding out for the right bull. On the fourth day, it finally came together. After hearing two bulls fighting at dawn, Samantha and her guide crept through tall grass and waited. With a few cow calls, a massive bull came trotting in.
At 40 yards, Samantha took the shot — and nailed it. The 6x7 bull elk went down within 100 yards, and the rest is history. The animal was estimated at 800 pounds, and the rack green-scored at 310 inches.
Getting the bull out? That was a whole different story. The team dragged it downhill for four hours — no vehicles allowed — proving once again that the hunt doesn’t end with the shot.
Her bull was officially checked at a game station in Benezette, where state officials confirmed Samantha's place in the record books.
This big moment was made possible by a lucky draw for a limited bull elk tag — and by a new law allowing Sunday hunting in Pennsylvania for the first time, giving young hunters like Samantha more opportunities.
What’s next for her? She’s got her sights set on the “Pennsylvania Quad Trophy” — elk, black bear, turkey, and deer — all with a crossbow. Talk about ambitious!
Moral of the story? Don't underestimate a determined young hunter and her crossbow.
Reference: https://www.outdoorlife.com/hunting/youngest-hunter-bull-elk-pennsylvania/
14-Year-Old Becomes the Youngest Hunter to Ever Tag a Bull Elk in Pennsylvania
Military Training Helps Missing Hunter Survive Winter Storm in Colorado Backcountry
According to Summit Daily, A 57-year-old hunter from Illinois is safe today, thanks to a combination of military experience, calm thinking, and solid preparation — after spending two freezing nights alone in the rugged backcountry of Jackson County, Colorado.
On Monday, Sept. 22, the man became separated from his group near the Three Sisters Trailhead in the Rawah Wilderness. The last anyone heard from him was a text saying he was lost, just before 3:30 p.m. His phone later went dark, and with winter weather rolling in, it was too dangerous for search teams to head out that night.
By the next day, over 20 agencies — including Search and Rescue teams, deputies, and wildlife officials — launched a full-scale search in snowy, cold, and windy conditions. Air support was grounded, and rescuers battled through the backcountry on foot.
Despite the brutal storm and tough terrain, the search effort continued into a second day. Then, on the afternoon of Wednesday, Sept. 24, hope came from above: the hunter was able to place several 911 calls, helping rescuers pinpoint his location.
At around 1 p.m., air support spotted him — alive and in good health.
So how did he make it? The hunter credited his survival to his military training, staying calm, building a fire, and using his sleeping bag and layers to stay warm.
A big thanks goes out to Jackson and Grand County responders, Colorado Parks and Wildlife, search dog teams, and all others who helped pull off this dramatic rescue.
Moral of the story? Being prepared can make all the difference — especially when Mother Nature has other plans.
Reference: https://www.summitdaily.com/news/missing-hunters-military-experience-and-supplies-keep-him-alive-in-jackson-county-backcountry/
Tragic Lightning Strike Kills Two Missing Elk Hunters in Colorado Wilderness
According to the Kiowa County Press, Wyoming is at the forefront of a renewed push to remove Endangered Species Act protections from grizzly bears in the Greater Yellowstone Ecosystem. Representative Harriet Hageman has introduced the Grizzly Bear State Management Act of 2025, which supporters say reflects decades of conservation success.
Grizzly numbers in the region have rebounded from just a few hundred in the 1970s to nearly 1,000 today, meeting recovery targets set back in 1993. Advocates argue it's time to return management to the states, allowing for more flexible and responsive action on local issues — especially as livestock conflicts rise. Last year, grizzlies killed 91 cattle in Wyoming, the highest number on record.
The bill also aims to cut through federal red tape, reinstating a Trump-era delisting rule and blocking future legal challenges that have stalled similar efforts. Supporters say it will free up resources at the U.S. Fish and Wildlife Service and help speed up energy development and wildlife responses.
While environmental groups warn that grizzlies still face genetic and habitat threats, Wyoming leaders say the bear has recovered — and state wildlife agencies are ready to manage them responsibly. Wyoming’s stance? Grizzlies have recovered. It’s time to let states take the reins.
Reference: https://kiowacountypress.net/content/wyoming-leading-charge-delist-greater-yellowstone-grizzlies
Rare “Pink Meanie” Jellyfish Swarm Texas Beaches — What to Know and How to Treat a Sting
If you’re heading to the Texas coast, watch your step — a surprising surge of rare pink meanie jellyfish has marine scientists scratching their heads.
These jellyfish are no joke: they can weigh up to 50 pounds and their tentacles can stretch as long as 70 feet. From Port Aransas to Corpus Christi, beachgoers are spotting more of them than ever before.
Marine biologist Jace Tunnell from Texas A&M University-Corpus Christi says it’s unlike anything he’s seen in years of beachcombing. “I grew up on the beach and had never seen one until this year,” he said.
The “pink meanie” was only officially recognized in 2011 and is known for its cotton candy color and its appetite for other jellyfish — especially moon jellies, which are currently blooming in Gulf waters.
What to Do If You Get Stung
While the sting isn’t life-threatening, it can hurt — lasting about 10 minutes with red marks that stay for a couple of days. Here’s how to treat it:
Experts say these jellyfish likely won’t stick around — once cooler weather hits, both moon jellies and pink meanies are expected to disappear from Texas shores.
Reference: https://www.foxnews.com/travel/surge-rare-jellyfish-sightings-across-multiple-beaches-stumps-experts
OUTDOORS FIELD REPORTS & COMMENTS
We want to hear from you! If you have any questions, comments, or stories to share about bighorn sheep, outdoor adventures, or wildlife conservation, don’t hesitate to reach out. Call or text us at 305-900-BEND (305-900-2363), or send an email to [email protected]. Stay connected by following us on social media at Facebook/Instagram @thebendshow or by subscribing to The Bend Show on YouTube. Visit our website at TheBendShow.com for more exciting content and updates!
https://thebendshow.com/
https://www.facebook.com/thebendshow
WESTERN LIFESTYLE & THE OUTDOORS
Jeff ‘Tigger’ Erhardt & Rebecca ‘BEC’ Wanner are passionate news broadcasters who represent the working ranch world, rodeo, and the Western way of life. They are also staunch advocates for the outdoors and wildlife conservation. As outdoorsmen themselves, Tigger and BEC provide valuable insight and education to hunters, adventurers, ranchers, and anyone interested in agriculture and conservation.
With a shared love for the outdoors, Tigger & BEC are committed to bringing high-quality beef and wild game from the field to your table. They understand the importance of sharing meals with family, cooking the fruits of your labor, and making memories in the great outdoors. Through their work, they aim to educate and inspire those who appreciate God’s Country and life on the land.
United by a common mission, Tigger & BEC offer a glimpse into the life beyond the beaten path and down dirt roads. They’re here to share knowledge, answer your questions, and join you in your own success story. Adventure awaits around the bend. With The Outdoors, the Western Heritage, Rural America, and Wildlife Conservation at the forefront, Tigger and BEC live this lifestyle every day.
To learn more about Tigger & BEC’s journey and their passion for the outdoors, visit TiggerandBEC.com.
https://tiggerandbec.com/