After learning you have developed mesothelioma, your first thoughts may center on your mortality or potential personal hardships. However, as you learn to coexist with your condition, you may soon become focused on family matters.
The most urgent concern for nearly all mesothelioma patients is what will happen to their families if they become incapacitated or pass away. Who will provide for them and help them through life’s struggles? The actions you take now can help you put the concerns you have for your loved ones to rest.
Get a legal assessment
You may believe there is nothing you can do to improve your family’s circumstances as someone with an incurable illness. Fortunately, that may not be the case in your situation. A legal review can help you track the cause of your mesothelioma and identify your options.
Two possible sources of compensation to investigate are:
- Litigation targeting the individual or entity that negligently exposed you to mesothelioma
- Eligibility for a portion of funds set aside in trust for certain mesothelioma patients
Of course, you should evaluate all potential remedies and solutions.
Explore government benefits and private assistance
Many people believe that government benefits like Medicaid or food assistance will shame them and their family. However, they can provide necessary relief. Do not be afraid to seek out government benefits and encourage your family to do the same.
Many other organizations are glad to lend a hand. Five groups that may assist with financial (and other) matters include:
- The HealthWell Foundation
- The American Cancer Society
- The Mesothelioma Veterans Center
- The CancerCare Foundation
- The Mesothelioma Applied Research Foundation (MARF)
Feeling better about your financial situation and the future of your loved ones can allow you to focus on treatment and spending time with your family.