Support Is There, If You Seek It

Finances can be a challenge for many people. Add a cancer diagnosis to the mix and the plot thickens.

Patients may be forced to choose between buying a medication that could save their life or paying the mortgage so they can keep a roof over their head. It’s a tough call for anyone.

In this special issue of CURE^®, we offer up dozens of resourc­es that can help those who are struggling to make ends meet while also facing cancer. We dive into the world of nonprofit organizations and pharmaceutical companies that provide financial assistance, as well as highlight the support of people like social workers and nurses, who can advise patients trying to navigate the disease.

In addition to providing funds, programs and organiza­tions help set up lodging, car service or plane rides for those who must travel near or far for treatment. In the past year, for example, Hotel Keys of Hope provided 10,000 free rooms and tens of thousands more at discounted rates. You will hear the stories of patients who benefited from this generosity and are forever grateful.

Also inside: a one-stop guide to national organizations that offer items and services at no cost to patients. Freebies include wigs and other headwear for those who lose their hair from chemotherapy, camps and retreats, yoga classes, home clean­ing services and insurance mediation assistance. Plus, we share tips to make sure patients better their chances of getting what they desire.

Although financial hardship can be experienced by anyone with cancer, the adolescent and young adult (AYA) popula­tion faces an even harder hit. According to research, AYAs with cancer are more than $100,000 behind their peers in average net worth. Their diagnosis can be financially devastating even before they make it into the workforce. This issue highlights organizations that solely help this patient population.

Financial concerns add extra stress for patients and families at a time when emotions are already high, but these fears can be eased. Seek help from the companies and organizations named in this issue. Ask for assistance if something is not eas­ily understood. And recognize that many people are willing to aid patients in their time of need. A lot of funding is there, but you need to know where to go and what to do to obtain it.

We hope this special issue serves as your guide to finding your way out of financial toxicity or helps you before you get to that point.

As always, thank you for reading.

MIKE HENNESSY, SR.

Chairman and CEO