This is sad to hear about, especially happening to such a young kid. I am glad they were able to remove the tumor.
I would start by checking state and federal programs available.
Also, have them speak to a financial counselor/financial social worker at the hospital......there are programs available to help with those who are not insured and meet guidelines. They will also be able to get them in touch with other groups/organizations that might be able to offer help.
In some areas of the country this may not be acceptable or common, but here when something like this happens, groups of people(usually friends of the family) will throw a huge fundraiser.
Anything from benefit auctions to small carnivals. You'd be surprised at the groups who are willing to help and donate their time/services. There is a local group of bike riders who will do benefit rides. There is a small town guy who has some small carnival rides and the blow up attractions(like the huge slide, moon bounce, etc) and he will donate his services and set up the attractions.
It takes a while to plan and takes a lot of legwork, but in the end it is for a good cause and everyone has a great time.
Also, talk to the HR department at their employers. Many companies will set up ways for co-workers to donate. For instance, I have a friend who works at the hospital here and when something tragic like this happens to an employee or their family and they need help, the hospital will allow other employees to donate their vacation, personal day, or sick leave days to the employee. The employee then has the option to use those days as paid time off to deal with their circumstance or cash the donated days in if they are needing financial help instead of extra time off.
Message Edited by sidewinder on
09-05-2008 09:24 AM
