When your child is preparing for the blood and marrow transplant (BMT), either you or your spouse may need to leave work. This can be a considerable adjustment, since you and your family will have to manage on less income. If you are experiencing financial hardship because of your child’s diagnosis, please speak with your social worker or Interlink nurse, if available at the hospital.
If you and your family do not have drug coverage through your employment, services in Ontario that may be able to help include:
- Trillium Foundation
- Assistance for Children with Severe Disabilities (ACSD)
If you do not live near the hospital where your child is being treated, there may also be out-of-pocket costs, such as food, parking, and accommodations. You may find the following services useful.
- The Paediatric Oncology Financial Assistance Program (POFAP). They can fund costs such as food, accommodation, and child care for siblings under the age of 12.
- The Canadian Cancer Society can help provide transportation to and from the hospital.
- The Northern Health Travel Grant Program. They can help with some travel costs for Northern Ontario residents who travel at least 100 km for medical care that is not locally available.