Cancer sure is Lifus Interruptus.

A few days ago, a friend dropped by with a section of The Toronto Star’s “Women and Cancer” and I finally got a chance to read it over the weekend. I noticed an article by Elvira Cordileone entitled “When finances add to burden“.

I couldn’t find the link directly through The Star’s web site (I guess they don’t want people to find information easily) and ended up finding Elvira’s article at HealthZone.ca (okay, so it’s part of The Toronto Star, but I didn’t know that).

The woman who was the subject of the article, clearly resonated with me since Ms. McDowell’s story mirrors mine in many ways: I was (and still am in some ways) the sole caregiver for my mother who had bowel cancer 15 years ago (then Alzheimer’s for over 10 years before placing her in longterm care), she’s self employed as I am and she also refused chemotherapy as I did — due in whole to the worry of money and being able to pay the bills … or at least how to support yourself during a lengthy or permanent medical crisis.

The Women’s College Hospital has counsellors available to provide information and access to financial support. I called this morning and they are only open a few days a week: their number is 416-323-6400 ext. 4240. They are part of Wellspring and the name of the service is Money Matters — if there is a Wellspring near you, contact them directly as they may have Money Matters at that facility as well. The Wellspring in my area has a Money Matters which is much easier than having to trek into the city.

I’m making the presumption that the service is free, but won’t know until I’ve had a chance to speak to them …

… and what a coincidence that I have my first interview tomorrow morning regarding disability benefits: I don’t even know if I’m eligible because I’m self-employed.

I’ll keep you posted … wish me luck!