Relief Fund Helps Offset Medical Expenses

The Catastrophic Illness in Children Relief Fund Commission, a New Jersey based organization, has been helping families with burdensome medical expenses for nearly two decades.

A government entity, the commission will provide reimbursements to families and negotiate with insurance providers for both insured and uninsured families. Of the 327 families awarded funds this year, 20 percent were uninsured. Those who were insured found their expenses didn't qualify for insurance coverage.

Families residing in New Jersey can apply for medical reimbursements, large or small, for conditions ranging from broken bones to cerebral palsy.

For instance, the family of 13-year-old Erin Saunders turned to the commission after applying to almost all available resources to no avail. Erin has cerebral palsy and her 11 surgeries have all but drained the family's finances.

The commission gave the Saunders family more than $34,000 in reimbursements to cover a specialized van and stairlift Erin needed to travel and go up the stairs in her home.

“We weren't expecting to get anything because everywhere we applied we were turned down. We have been so blessed. Because of the commission, everything she needs, she has,” said Erin's mother, Wanda.

New Jersey families who have medical expenses that exceed 10 percent of their income for children under 21 may apply to the commission for medical reimbursements by calling (609) 292-0600.