The surprise costs of having cancer

Personal Health Journey: Navigating Stage 4 Colorectal and Liver Cancer

In May 2024, after two years of persistent and unusual abdominal sensations, I asked my husband to check my abdomen. His immediate concern led us to the hospital. After five hours of waiting and tests, the doctors informed me of a large abdominal mass. They recommended a colonoscopy, provided a referral to a surgeon, and sent me home.

By June 2024, after undergoing one colonoscopy and two endoscopies, I was referred to the BC Cancer Centre. Shortly thereafter, I received a life-altering diagnosis: Stage 2 colorectal cancer that had metastasized to my liver, resulting in Stage 4 liver cancer.

At the time, I had just started a promising new job with long-term career potential. My husband and I were also planning our future. In an instant, all of those plans felt irrelevant.

Treatment and Financial Challenges

In August 2024, I began my first round of chemotherapy. While BC covers chemotherapy costs, there are numerous out-of-pocket expenses every three weeks. These include pre-chemotherapy medications such as Odansetron and Dexamethasone.

After going on medical leave, I learned that I was not eligible for extended medical benefits due to my part-time status. Fortunately, a system glitch initially allowed me to receive reimbursements for my medications, but I have since been removed from that coverage.

My husband, currently on leave for a herniated disc, has extended medical benefits but is unable to add me to his plan.

Travel expenses are another significant burden. Although BC Cancer has volunteer programs to assist with travel, the short notice of my appointments often prevents me from utilizing these services. Living three towns away from my treatment center, I must cover the cost of gas and transportation for all appointments, bloodwork, and procedures.

Additional out-of-pocket costs include:

Cannabis Products: I use RSO pills, solventless droppers, full-spectrum THC vapes, and occasionally smoke joints to manage pain, sleep issues, and appetite.

Skincare: Chemotherapy has caused chronic dry skin, and I now use vegan products to manage this condition.

Medical Equipment: I purchased a bed rail to help with getting in and out of bed and a walker to assist with mobility for errands. Although I could rent or receive donated equipment, I intend to donate these items after my recovery.

Despite these financial strains, I still make an effort to bring treats for the nurses and staff at the BC Cancer Centre. Their dedication and care mean the world to me.

Financial Outlook and Next Steps

As of February 2025, I am receiving Employment Insurance (EI) medical sickness benefits. However, these benefits are nearing their limit, and I will soon need to apply for CPP (Canada Pension Plan) sickness benefits, which typically take two to three months to process. These funds will be critical in helping me cover rent and monthly bills as I continue my treatment and healing journey.

Throughout this experience, I remain deeply grateful for the support and care I have received. The road ahead is uncertain, but I am determined to move forward with hope and resilience.