How to Raise Money for Medical Expenses

We've all seen those jars in supermarkets and shops with the picture of a small child and a note asking for donations toward a medical procedure. While you might think it is sad that the family can't afford a heart transplant or chemotherapy on their own, the reality doesn't hit home until you undergo the same problems yourself. What do you do when a major surgery or other medical treatment isn't covered by your insurance?

There are various ways that you can raise the money necessary for the procedures you or your child need. The jar in a shop is just one method, although it can be quite effective, all those nickels and dimes add up to a considerable amount of cash!

You might want to check out non-charity options before asking people for help. Taking out a second mortgage on your home is one option. You will end up paying more in the long run, but if the medical procedure is a matter of life or death, this really doesn't matter.

Other options for raising the money yourself is to sell your possessions. Many families these days have two cars. It might be time to see if you can live with just one. Selling off valuables such as silver and antiques can be a good way to get some money, as well. In some cases, you may even want to sell your home to raise the cash.
Once your own money-making options have run out, it is time to look to others. Asking for a loan from a friend or family member is one way to go. Some may prefer to simply donate a sum of money. Don't be too proud at this point, go ahead and take what is offered. You can figure out a method of compensation after the fact.

Doing a fundraiser in your community is another way to raise some cash. There are literally hundreds of fundraising ideas, just do a quick search on Google and you will turn up plenty of ideas to work with. One that does very well for cancer patients undergoing chemotherapy or radiation therapy is to have people pledge money to see famous locals shave their heads. This can be held in a public place, with people donating money to make their local celebrities bald.

Setting up a website is another way to go. You can do this on a free server and add a PayPal Donate button. Put up the full story, with photos and any information you feel would be helpful. Include an email address where people can contact you. Then submit the site to search engines, let blog owners know about your situation, submit to Digg and other social bookmarking sites and leave comments in forums with links back to the website. It might be best to have a friend do all this work for you, since you will probably be too busy with other things.

Let your local churches know what is happening, as well. Many times, churches are more than willing to help out, even if you don't attend. They can give good ideas for fundraisers as well as provide needed help such as prepared meals and transport, in addition to fundraising and donations.

A notice in your local paper might also be a good idea. Set up your website ahead of time so people can check it out for more information and to donate. You could also open a special bank account where people and companies can direct deposit funds. This works very well for the newspaper because there may be people who wish to remain anonymous, but still want to donate.