Lately there's been a lot of posts about friends and family members with cancer...

[Kathy in MD]

I've recently entered the world of medical research and have learned that there are a lot of very good cancer studies that are in search of participants.

May I suggest that you search the web for cancer trials in the type of cancer your loved ones have? Unfortunately clinical oncologists can't keep up with all the current studies. Also often times you don't need a doctor's referral to get into these studies. And medical expenses are fully paid. Travel expenses are often partially or fully paid as well.

[Sharon in SC]

Thanks, Kathy, for the insight here. I just happened to have had a dear friend diagnosed this week with Stage IV breast cancer. :-{ I don't believe this family has insurance. It is an incredibly overwhelming time for them...

[Liz CA]

Thanks, Kathy, for the insight here. I just happened to have had a dear friend diagnosed this week with Stage IV breast cancer. :-{ I don't believe this family has insurance. It is an incredibly overwhelming time for them...

a neighbor of mine had breast cancer and no insurance. She found a program that paid for her treatment. Now this is in California and I don't know if this was a state sponsored program or nationwide.
She should tell her doctor/nurse anybody in the medical community that she does not have the means to seek treatment. Somebody will know of a way to deal with this!

[Kathy in MD]

no insurance.... The stress on her family must be unbearable.

Hopefully she can find a good study to enter. But as Liz posted, sometimes there are special programs for the uninsured. My sister found one in a state other than CA, so maybe there's one near you. Also, many drug manufacturers offer a free drug program.

[Sharon in SC]

Thank you, ladies, for your posts. I'll mention your comments to my friend.