Me again, I'm like those stink bugs, just can't get rid of me!!!

[bird]

So, I think this sight is now a license to talk about anything. I know I'm always asking for advice. Well, why would I stop now?  If anyone knows a way to get help paying for cancer drugs/treatment/ ect. , I have a dear friend who doesn't have health insurance, and is in a world of trouble now. She consistantly makes 13,000 dollars a year. ... which means, a lot of groups will not help her. If anyone knows anything about how to help someone that has worked every day of her life find financial aid for cancer treatment, I would really love for you to tell me about it.
      Again, I think this forum is now devoted to all of us folk's talking about whatever is on our mind. I wouldn't have brought this up in our normal wrench site page, but, I'm desperate for help.  My brother, a doctor, (I know, everyone always asks, 'what happened to you??) has been talking to everyone and anyone he can talk to about this situation...... which, is pretty amazing, considering he's never even met Lisa.
     Well, this is a plea as a friend to other folks I believe are my friends.
I miss you all and wish you the best
cheers, bird

[Wrenchmensch]

Has anyone done a search for drug company trials on drug candidates that relate to the disease?

[Aunt Phil]

Pretty much all the drug manufacturers have what is called a Compassionate Care program to provide their drugs to people in exactly the situation you describe.

Doctors know about it as do hospitals, and both are supposed to advise patients of the programs.  They usually don't. 
In the long run it generally works best for the individual to contact the manufacturer of the drug they need themself and ask about the company's program.  There was even a clearing house set up by several manufacturers a few years back to help patients in need, but I don't have the information available immediately.

The costs associated with administration of drugs that must be infused is a second issue.  Usually teaching hospitals have a program for people in need.  If there isn't a teaching hospital available the patient should have access to the hospital's social worker at the treating hospital.  Hospital Social Workers exist to solve these situations, and usually do.

[bird]

thanks guys,
cheers, bird