Skin Cancer
When setting up a GoFundMe for someone diagnosed with skin cancer, the fundraising goal will depend on the cancer type (e.g., melanoma, basal cell carcinoma, or squamous cell carcinoma), its stage, and the treatment plan. Here’s a general breakdown of potential costs:
Medical Treatments: Skin cancer treatment can involve surgery, radiation, chemotherapy, immunotherapy, or targeted therapy. Costs can range from $10,000 to $100,000+ depending on the type and stage of the cancer.
Surgery & Hospitalization: Surgical procedures like Mohs surgery or excisions may cost $5,000 to $30,000 depending on the complexity. More advanced surgeries for metastatic skin cancer can exceed $50,000.
Radiation & Chemotherapy: Radiation therapy can cost $10,000 to $50,000, while chemotherapy cycles might range from $10,000 to $60,000+ depending on the drugs and treatment duration.
Immunotherapy & Targeted Therapy: For more advanced cases like metastatic melanoma, immunotherapy or targeted drugs (e.g., Keytruda or Opdivo) can cost $100,000 to $200,000+ annually.
Ongoing Care & Follow-Up: Follow-up visits, skin checks, imaging, and medication can add another $5,000 to $20,000 per year.
Reconstructive Surgery: If skin cancer affects visible areas, reconstructive procedures may be needed, costing anywhere from $5,000 to $50,000+.
Lost Wages & Mental Health Support: Cancer treatment often leads to lost income and the need for therapy or counseling, which can vary depending on the individual's situation.
A reasonable starting goal might be $50,000 to $150,000, but if the cancer is more advanced or requires immunotherapy or long-term treatments, consider a goal of $200,000 to $300,000 or more.