A new Vancouver Island-based charity is stepping in to help patients pay for alternative medical treatments not covered by public health care or private insurance.
Funding for Life focuses on supporting people with Lyme disease by helping cover the cost of therapies such as acupuncture and homeopathy.
The charity was founded in response to what it calls an “urgent” gap between patient needs and government or insurance coverage, especially for those turning to emerging or non-traditional treatments.
“Natural doctors and practitioners have created a lot of avenues to help [folks with Lyme disease],” said Gail Owens, president of Funding for Life. “We want to help them to see that there are certain treatments that will definitely help them.”
Transmitted through a tick’s bite, the symptoms of Lyme disease can vary widely and may appear in different stages. Early symptoms often include a bull's-eye rash, fever, fatigue, headache, as well as muscle and joint aches. Later stages can involve more serious complications like arthritis, nerve problems, and heart problems.
Fewer than 40 cases of Lyme disease have been reported annually in B.C. since 2013, according to the B.C. Centre for Disease Control
While Owens said the organization aims to grow and cover other ailments, their current focus is on Lyme, as she says the need for support is especially pressing.
As warmer temperatures are driving up tick populations across the country, Lyme disease diagnoses are increasing.
“People can just go to our website and there's an 'apply' button,” she said. “They can apply and fill in the form and tell us what their story is and… hopefully we can help them.”
To receive support, to donate or for more information, visit fundingforlife.ca.
