QOL-24. FINANCIAL AID REQUESTS BY BRAIN TUMOR PATIENTS IN ONTARIO THROUGH GOFUNDME

Abstract

Abstract Brain tumors affect individuals globally including Ontario residents. Numerous Ontario brain tumor patients suffer the unequal burden of responsibility to pay for treatments like oral chemotherapy. In addition to chemotherapy, patients and their families have other costs associated with their diagnosis. However, less is known about other direct and indirect financial costs due to their diagnosis. GoFundMe, an online fundraising platform, provides worldwide brain tumor patients the opportunity to raise money for financial assistance with costs associated with their diagnosis The purpose of this study was to analyze publicly-available data from GoFundMe, an online fundraising platform, to explore the financial needs of brain tumor patients across Ontario, unaware and/or unable to get assistance elsewhere. A qualitative descriptive design drawing on thematic analysis was used to analyze GoFundMe requests to support individuals diagnosed with brain cancer in Ontario between 2014 and 2021. A coding framework was created to determine emerging themes using qualitative data analysis software NVivo 10. A final sample of 154 requests described financial strain from the loss of income experienced by the patient and their caregivers to afford cancer treatments. Requests highlighted 1) an overall lack of awareness of how and where access financial aid and affordable psychosocial support; 2) concerns over the long-term financial well-being of bereaving family members; 3) A call for more public awareness of the financial burden and emotional distress experienced by of those impacted by brain cancer. These GoFundMe requests highlight a connection between financial burden and emotional distress and an overall lack of awareness of where/how to seek financial and emotional support. These results will serve as the foundation to advocate for and raise awareness of the financial assistance needed by brain tumor patients and their families.