Battling Cancer and Financial Toxicity with Compassion
Money is the cure to financial toxicity for cancer patients who don’t have the means to treat it. (Save a Patient Now)
In Singapore, the cost of treatment for late-stage cancer ranges from SGD 100,000 to SGD 200,000, approximately SGD 8,400 to SGD 16,700 per month (Source: Smart Wealth, 18 March 2024). These costs far exceed the average monthly household income in Singapore. Without insurance, not only is the patient’s survivability compromised, but their family can also face financial ruin. Often, even when insurance covers most medical expenses, co-insurance payments can still plunge families into financial distress when they are living at the margins of society. Beyond the physical toll of the disease, patients confront what is known as financial toxicity, which can be as crippling as the cancer itself. This burden often forces patients to opt for less effective treatments or cheaper medications, compounding their struggle with both health and financial hardships.
The more sick you are, the less you can work, the lesser you work, the poorer you become; and begin the vicious cycle of despair and hopelessness.
This downward spiral will inevitably exert severe stress not only on the patients but also on the family members surrounding them. With statistics indicating that 1 in 4 to 5 Singaporeans may face cancer by the age of 75, the scale of this challenge is undeniable. We must step forward with acts of kindness and support them to alleviate those who fall into this predicament. Our profound compassion for our fellow citizens can forge a more meaningful society. It is through such collective efforts that we strengthen our bonds and come together more tightly as a nation.
How can I participate in this meaningful endeavour?
Imagine you have a modest sum of SGD20 at your disposal every month. You’ve decided to selflessly donate this amount to a charity, a charity in Singapore dedicated to supporting cancer patients. While SGD20 might seem like a modest contribution, it sends a powerful message of compassion and solidarity to the patients. This gesture of kindness not only uplifts the spirits of those battling cancer but also motivates others who might spare an extra SGD20 each month to join this noble cause. As more people contribute, our combined efforts soon amount to SGD400 per month, enough to significantly alleviate the financial strain on a patient. Though the total sum remains constant, the impact of our collective action is profound, showing the patients that an entire community stands with them. This not only boosts their morale but strengthens the fabric of our society through shared efforts and mutual support.
Cancer is a formidable adversary under any circumstances, but the challenge is significantly magnified when patients face financial toxicity due to inadequate resources. The antidote to these harsh realities lies in small, yet powerful, acts of kindness and compassion. With a contribution as little as SGD 20 per month and by encouraging friends to participate, we can collectively take a stand against this disease. Together, as a community, we not only fight cancer but also the financial burdens it brings, offering hope and support where it’s most needed.
InterAktiv partnered with Ain Society in battling cancers. Please join forces with us to eradicate the financial toxicity of these patients and bring hope.
