DEAR EDITOR:
Here in B.C., we are fortunate to have a health care system that is free, but when illness strikes, such as cancer, there are many unexpected financial expenses and pressures that arise, and often people are reluctant to speak out about it.
Loss of income, or reduced income because of the inability to work, both by the patient and the caregiver, translates to increased out-of-pocket living expenses and bills. Lack of critical illness insurance is a big set-back, and most of us just don’t see cancer coming, nor realize the financial hardship that can be associated with it.
When Chris was first diagnosed with cancer in 2016, we thought he beat it, but it came back with a vengeance in 2018. He is currently in palliative care, and like all terminal illness, it’s a difficult time.
This is why I want to take the opportunity to recognize and thank the SwimBowen Society.
It means so much to Chris and me that its Cancer Care Fund has been available to us throughout this journey, providing grant funds to offset a number of expenses and unexpected costs. The Bowen community is fortunate to have this dedicated team, whose prime focus is the annual SwimBowen event that generates the funds to offer support and assistance to those in all stages of cancer treatment and care.
Josie Farrell and Chris Weyler
