Cancer & Finances (Part 1): Walking the Road to Recovery — With Courage and Clarity
- Sandy Lim
- Oct 23
- 3 min read
A Personal Note from My Heart
I still remember the first time a client shared with me, “Sandy, I’ve just been diagnosed with cancer.”
There was a long pause — not because there were no words to say, but because sometimes words can’t hold the weight of moments like that.
Over the years, I’ve walked beside clients (including myself) who have battled illnesses - each story is different, but one thing is constant: the fight is not only physical or emotional. There is also the invisible weight of financial uncertainty — the quiet questions that come at any moment:
“Will my savings be enough?”“Can my family manage if I can’t work?”“What happens next?”
These are not easy questions to answer, but they’re important ones. My hope in writing this is to share a few insights that might make this journey a little gentler — for you, or for someone you love. The Financial Side of Cancer — What Many Don’t Talk About
Cancer changes everything — not just your health, but your routines, relationships, and yes, your finances too. Even with good insurance, reality can hit hard.
The Hidden Costs of Healing - the bills could pile up easily — blood tests, scans, treatments, medications, special diets. It’s not just the hospital stay; it’s everything in between. (refer to upcoming post on the details of the hidden cost of healing)
The Sudden Pause in Income - Some had to reduce work hours or stop working completely. One said, “It wasn’t the treatments that scared me most — it was not being able to provide for my child and I do not want to die yet as my child is still young.” That fear is real, and it deserves planning, not shame.
The Everyday Changes - Travelling for medical appointments, paying for supplements, modifying the home for comfort, or hiring help — these small shifts quietly strain the budget over time.
The Financial Steps for a Stronger Tomorrow:
There’s no one-size-fits-all plan, but here are a few steps that can make a difference — shared through the lessons of many real journeys.
1. Revisit Your Insurance — Know What’s Covered and What’s Not.
2. Keep a “Peace of Mind” Fund or an emergency fund, a comfort fund of 3–6 months for expenses. The fund can also be your emotional anchor — so that you know that you have something to fall back on 3. Understand Your Disability and Life Coverage 4. Simplify and Reduce Debt - to ease anxiety and make daily life more manageable.
5. Reach Out for Guidance - no one should walk this alone — not medically, not emotionally, and not financially.
Healing Forward — One Step at a Time
Recovery isn’t just about getting back to “normal.” It’s about finding a new rhythm — one that honours how much you’ve grown, endured, and learned.
Many survivors tell me that cancer changed their relationship with money. It wasn’t just about saving or spending anymore — it was about living with purpose and peace.
If you’re in the middle of this journey, please remember:You don’t need to have everything figured out. You just need to keep taking one small, steady step forward — financially, emotionally, and spiritually.
And when you need help, reach out. You’re not alone on this path.
Don’t navigate this alone — reach out to me here, and let’s work through your next steps together.
Disclaimer: This post is for general information only — not financial advice. Everyone’s story and situation are unique, please consult a qualified professional for personal guidance.
Click the link below to view the video titled "Managing the Cost of Cancer".
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