Practical Issues - Financial Issues

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Dealing with the financial implications of contracting a life-threatening disease like mesothelioma can be frightening.  If you’re the major bread-winner in your home, you’ll be especially concerned about how your disease may affect the financial well-being of your family.

Much will depend on your ability to maintain a job during treatment for your disease.  There are some who are able to sustain a regular schedule, but the majority of mesothelioma patients will need to either leave work or take some time off.  This will certainly affect your pocketbook and perhaps your lifestyle.

There will be a number of issues to address and some key people with whom you should speak.

• Your employer – As soon as you receive your diagnosis, make an appointment to meet with a human resources representative at your workplace.  They can give you specifics about health benefits, sick pay, leave of absence, disability, or anything that pertains to your job and its connected benefits.
• A financial planner – If you have a financial or investment planner that you use regularly, see him/her to determine how you can make the most of the money you have already saved. 
• A lawyer – If and when it’s necessary to deal with end-of-life financial issues, see a lawyer to be sure that your will is in place and is written in accordance with your wishes.  (While you’re there, be sure to check and see if you’ve completed a living will as well.)

If you find - as your disease progresses and you’re unable to work - that your debt continues to grow, don’t hesitate to seek help.  If you’re having difficulties making payments on your mortgage, car, or other essentials, it’s necessary that you reach out and explain your situation as thoroughly as possible. 

Some lenders will be willing to accept smaller payments or even perhaps give you a reprieve for a short time, perhaps 6 months or so.  This may be just enough time for you to catch up and become solvent again.  Social workers may also be able to assist you in finding organizations that can help you handle your burgeoning debt.