By Jenni Riley, FPQP™
I write about how real-life events can affect your pocketbook.
Cancer—a word that changes lives like no other in the dictionary. Virtually everyone has been touched by cancer, either directly or indirectly. The most recent data from the American Cancer Society estimates that in the United States approximately one in two men and one in three women will have some form of cancer in their lifetime. Cancer’s impact is physical, emotional, and financial. The cost of cancer care continues to rise in the U.S. and is expected to reach almost $174 billion this year, according to the National Cancer Institute.
Cancer treatments – could include surgeries, chemotherapy, radiation, anti-cancer drugs, and alternative therapies
Treatment of side effects – the most effective medicines may cause side effects requiring additional treatments
Time off work – may be necessary for the patient undergoing treatment, as well as those serving as caregivers
Travel expenses – medical procedures may require travel, lodging expenses, and other costs
Personal care – physical changes may occur that need to be accommodated, such as purchasing a wig or requiring new clothes due to changes in weight or to facilitate comfort and ease of dressing
Support appliances – may include shower chairs, wheelchairs, and other devices
Custodial care – additional support services may be needed to provide food, transportation, childcare, housecleaning, and shopping
The American Cancer Society Cancer.org is one of many resources providing options to patients and their families living with cancer. Some organizations engage volunteers to provide rides to appointments. Others help to mitigate the costs of transportation, short-term housing, food assistance, caregiver expenses, and other support services. Private grants exist through some facilities to help with out-of-pocket costs for medications not covered by health insurance.
As an adult, receiving a cancer diagnosis can feel devastating. It is a uniquely painful experience to learn one’s child is afflicted. Camp Rainbow Gold camprainbowgold.org is a nonprofit organization creating emotionally empowering experiences for Idaho children diagnosed with cancer, and their families.
The best advice is to begin looking for support resources early and be prepared to question all aspects of treatment, medications, and prognosis. Doing so may provide some fortitude in addressing the financial impact of cancer.
