The Cost of LIfe
Dear Future Transplant Patient,
Well, this is likely the hardest time of your life and you are incredibly stressed out. On top of all of it you have likely had to leave your job, your expenses have increased because you need more meds and you no longer have coverage and just to put the cherry on top, you have been told you need to raise at least $20,000 to get on the transplant list. And the panic attacks kick in.
Believe it or not but everything will work out. It’s time to kick it in to survival mode.
First, pick your support person. If possible as someone who has retired or can work from anywhere (remote work). They say this person needs to be with you 24/7 but as long as they are there as much as they can once your discharged that’s all that matters. Hopefully this person can help you with the next step. Raising money. This will relieve stress and get you where you need to be.
Start looking into housing and the possibilities. Fact is that you don’t know when you will get that transplant so it’s best for you and your support person to sit down and do this together. You don’t need a two bedroom just two beds. In April of 2023 when I had my transplant it was all very sudden and rushed but I was fortunate to have an amazing support person. She found a fantastic place at the Level on Richards St. This was walking distance to the hospital and suitable for my support person and any other visitors I had. I should mention I live in Kelowna. The Level cost between $3,800 and $4,800 a month. Now that sounds like a lot but its cheaper and nicer than a hotel. This was a B&B look up. We were able to update them month by month if we were staying. This is a good idea in case a more affordable place becomes available. Now I was there for 4-5 months so that adds up. Oh, keep all your receipts as they are a write off for you at the end of the year.
Now all of this may seem a little extreme but the Transplant Team wants to make sure you are financial sounds to stay and not hurry off home. They want this to be successful for you.
So most important is your support person. This will make all the difference in the world in your succession. Review everything with this person and get them a note book so they can keep notes about everything relating to this chapter.
Next, start fundraising so you can relieve some stress and concentrate on your health.
Third, just wait for your miracle. Everything the team asks for is to ensure your best chance and best results at your second chance at life.
- Fundraising Ideas that helped me raise over $40,000
- Gofundme page
- Booze basket raffle
- Online Auction
- Contact your local news and tell them about your story and let them know about your fundraisers
- Contact your local minor hockey team and let them know your story to see if you can raise funds at a game.
- Bottle Drive
These are just a few idea’s. Feel free to contact myself via Facebook if you would like advise on any ideas.
Stay Positive, you can do this.
Tawnee Brunet
DLT April 6, 2023
