John Roberts
Colon Cancer
“My name is John Roberts and I was diagnosed with Colon Cancer.”
In April 2020 during a surgery follow up, the doctor told me that my lab results came back and I have Colon Cancer. He said that I would have to do Chemotherapy and he then made an appointment for me to see an Oncologist. This diagnosis left me literally breathless. I could not breathe. I could not believe what I was hearing. I was currently at a hospital, away from where I lived. It meant that for the next six months I would be unable to go to work.
Chemo compromises your immune system and with Covid-19, it was not recommended that I travel back and forth. I was totally unprepared for this financially. Hotels close to the Hospital are not cheap. Unfortunately, there was little help coming from the American Cancer Society due to Covid-19. The most they did was a week at a hotel with a reduced rate. By this time my family was with me. We had to keep moving from hotel to hotel and whatever little savings I had was quickly coming to an end, paying thousands of dollars for accommodations and groceries etc.
Resources and advice were not forthcoming. We explored various resources which were of little help, especially since everything was closed down due to Covid-19. My major concern was being able to stay and have my treatment completed.
Finances were a major determining factor in being able to get the treatment I needed — Money for the hotel, transportation and groceries to feed myself and family. Thankfully, people heard about my situation and sent me donations so I could continue to stay and receive my treatment.
CSVI was able to provide financial assistance which helped greatly with my hotel bill while receiving treatment. CSVI helps bring a ray of hope to people in the community suffering from cancer. Just the thought that someone cares and is willing to help, can make all the difference in a person’s life and outlook for successfully beating this dreaded disease. The patient advocate was encouraging and helpful in seeking assistance. I know as an organization they could do much more if they receive more funding — but for now, every bit makes a difference in the financial and mental well being of people suffering with cancer. It helps give us a fighting chance!