Help With Medical Expenses

Options
TheLadySkye
TheLadySkye Member Posts: 203 Member
edited March 2015 in Colorectal Cancer #1

I'm not sure if information of this type is allowed on the site.  My apologies to the mods if it is not appropriate.

Earlier today, a couple friends came by to brighten my day with some tea and conversation.  They inquired about my health and how I was doing and what they could do to help with.  They also noticed the pile of unopened mail on my counter.  When I explained to them that they were medical bills I didn't dare open yet because I will still paying off ones from LAST YEAR, they absconded with my laptop and set up a funding site where folks might be able to help.  I think they put everything in my name so I could access the donated funds as needed, but they did all the writing and the work.  I am DEEPLY humbled by their kindness and efforts.  

<Content removed by CSN Support Team - Solicitation.>

I don't post this to solicit your hard-earned moneys, though I am beyond grateful if anyone can help.  I post this here because I know I'm not the only one having challenges paying the insane amount of medical bills that come with this battle.  I just wanted to let you know about this potential resource where friends, family, and those with the desire to help might be able to do so.  

Comments

  • Trubrit
    Trubrit Member Posts: 5,796 Member
    #2
    Options
    Unopened mail

    I did the very same with my medical bills when I was going through treatment. I've always handled the finances at home, and when those bills came in, I just couldn't face opening them up. In England we would say 'I have debt up to my eyeballs', except I think its more the top of my head an over. 

    Gofund me has been mentioned to me, as well. I hope it works out for you. 

    Sue - Trubrit

  • TheLadySkye
    TheLadySkye Member Posts: 203 Member
    #3
    Options
    Trubrit said:

    Unopened mail

    I did the very same with my medical bills when I was going through treatment. I've always handled the finances at home, and when those bills came in, I just couldn't face opening them up. In England we would say 'I have debt up to my eyeballs', except I think its more the top of my head an over. 

    Gofund me has been mentioned to me, as well. I hope it works out for you. 

    Sue - Trubrit

    Thank You

    Thank you, Sue.  I had very mixed feelings about accepting such generosity and just plain asking for the help.  I mean, I know I can't work like I used to and I recognize that the financial burden is more than most people can bear, but still...I felt like I should be able to do it.  Part of the whole taking care of oneself thing.  But of course I CAN'T do it all myself as is clearly evidenced by the pile of bills.  I'm sorry you can sympathize.  

    *pets your eyeballs*  

    *decides that's probably way creepier than intended*

  • Lovekitties
    Lovekitties Member Posts: 3,364 Member
    #4
    Options
    Help with medical expenses

    I suggest that you create a form letter which you can send to all you owe for medical care.

    Let them know your financial situation.

    I found that in dealing with them during my sister's illness, some were willing to "forgive" all or part of the debt.  Some were able to find funding either through private or government organizations.

    I understand that it is daunting, but keeping a spread sheet about expenses incurred and paid or forgiven is something you need to do, so you can continue to try to get outside assistance.

    Contacting these folks may also keep them from sending them to colleciton agencies, who have no heart at all.

    May each person find help with the financial burden this disease brings.

    Marie who loves kitties

  • TheLadySkye
    TheLadySkye Member Posts: 203 Member
    #5
    Options
    Lovekitties said:

    Help with medical expenses

    I suggest that you create a form letter which you can send to all you owe for medical care.

    Let them know your financial situation.

    I found that in dealing with them during my sister's illness, some were willing to "forgive" all or part of the debt.  Some were able to find funding either through private or government organizations.

    I understand that it is daunting, but keeping a spread sheet about expenses incurred and paid or forgiven is something you need to do, so you can continue to try to get outside assistance.

    Contacting these folks may also keep them from sending them to colleciton agencies, who have no heart at all.

    May each person find help with the financial burden this disease brings.

    Marie who loves kitties

    Thank you!  I find it so hard

    Thank you!  I find it so hard to keep up with contacting all the testing agencies, labs, doctors, and other medical staff involved who each all seem to have their own bills that accompany any treatment.  The spreadsheet is a good idea, and I will continue to look for resources like the ones you suggested to help with this additional scary part of treatment.

Discussion Boards