A question about finances and cancer [View all]

Ten years ago it was discovered that I had smouldering myeloma, a precursor to multiple myeloma. For years it looked like I might dodge the bullet but over the last two years the protein that indicates myeloma has increased significantly and today the oncologist said it's time to start treatement for stage one multiple myeloma.

The treatment involves thalidomide and a steroid, a combination that have been very successful in stopping the advancement of myeloma. The problem is that even with insurance out of pocket expenses can be more than $5000 per year. My wife is not working. I make pretty good money, but how in hell can someone afford to pay that kind of money?

I'm more worried about the money than about the cancer or the treatment. My understanding is that there is no cure for myeloma. I just don't want to wipe out our retirement and leave my wife with nothing. That would suck.