I AM HAVING SURGERY IN NEW YORK CITY AT SLOAN KETTERING NEXT MONTH FOR TONGUE CANCER. THE HOSPITAL IS ABOUT 150 MILES FROM MY HOME AND MY WIFE WOULD LIKE TO BE NEARBY AS I AM EXPECTED TO BE HOSPITALIZED FOR 7 TO 10 DAYS.

THE CHEAPEST HOTEL WE COULD FIND IN THE VICINITY OF THE HOSPITAL WILL COST US $229 PER NIGHT. THERE IS NO WAY WE CAN AFFORD THIS. THINGS ARE ALREADY TIGHT SINCE I HAVE MISSED SO MUCH WORK TRAVELLING BACK AND FORTH TO NYC FOR DOCTOR'S APPOINTMENTS.

ARE THERE ANY AGENCIES OR ASSISTANCE PROGRAMS THAT MIGHT BE ABLE TO HELP US OUT WITH FINANCIAL ASSISTANCE FOR A WEEK AT A HOTEL FOR PATIENT'S FAMILY MEMBERS?

Have you spoken with the social worker at MSKCCC? Some CCC's have housing units available for families.

See http://www.mskcc.org/mskcc/html/5364.cfm

I was given a printout of the link you provided by MSKCC rep. that was the only assistance I was offered.

Check with the American Cancer Society - they have Hope Lodges near hospitals where patients and caregivers can stay for free - the one in Baltimore is fabulous - patients at Univ of MD Hospital and Johns Hopkins stay there. Shuttles provided back and forth to the hospital. A hotel atmosphere - but warm and inviting and everything you need. Information on the American Cancer Society website.

If you can't get hooked up with a hospital housing unit,investigate Bed & Breakfast Homes. I stayed in a charming old apartment B&B [albeit 15 yrs. ago] close to 5th Ave. for $50.00 a night and rode the subway everywhere I wanted to go. Amy

By the way, I believe David has verified that out of town expenses for a family member during a hospital stay is tax deductible. Amy

HI Keplin,
another suggestion, go to www.craigslist.com, and go to NYC, http://newyork.craigslist.org/vac/
check this link several times a day as listings change. email the people, tell them what you need, ask for help, somone will help.
good luck.
you might also ask the social worker at sloan for help, shes a great lady. cant recall her name right now though, but just ask for a social worker and they will provide.
good luck, therese