Patient gift registry

Despite the devastating diagnosis, Diem decided to forge ahead and participate in Real World/Road Rules Challenge. However, after the show concluded, she experienced depression and a sense of helplessness; she was forced to deal with the impact of chemotherapy, expensive medical bills, and loss of her hair. She noted that when she went wig shopping, she was shocked by their cost. Thus, she was subjected to severe emotional and financial challenges. Friends and family came forward with offers of help; however, Diem did not possess the means to accept, organize, and keep track of the offers. Her dilemma gave birth to the concept of MedGift.

She explained that when a friend is getting married or pregnant, online registries are available to streamline the gift-giving; however, no gift registry was available for hospitalized patients. Patient registries on MedGift.com are verified via the patient’s hospital bill. Friends and family can log on to donate a wide variety of items, including money for hospital bills, groceries, and medical equipment. In addition they can donate non-monetary items such as visits, letters, and prayers. Diem explained, “Any item that can help reduce one ounce of stress, they can register for it… It takes the pride out of asking for help.”
The unique gift registry not only serves as a vehicle to assist patients with their needs but also incorporates the benefits of social media. MedGift provides a community of support for patients and an online listing of a patient’s specific Needs, Wants, and Wishes during treatment and recovery, similar to any other gift registry.

The Needs section enables the patient to request assistance with personal medical expenses related to treatment and recovery. At some MedGift-affiliated healthcare facilities, supporters can securely submit PayPal or credit card payments and have them post against the patient's account, directly through the MedGift Site.

The Wants section lists items the patient wants that can be purchased with a gift card, such as a new wig, magazine subscriptions, medical devices, or meals to support the family.

The Wishes section includes items that provide emotional or practical support, such as prayers, child care, shopping assistance, visits, and transportation to appointments.
The social networking arm of Diem’s Web site provides patients with reassurance that they are not alone in their struggle. Patients can communicate with their loved ones and share updates on their healthcare, celebrate daily victories, and receive comfort to help relieve the challenges that come with illness and recovery.

Diem passed away in 2014.

More info: http://www.medgift.com/

Adapted from: http://www.emaxhealth.com/11306/celebrity-cancer-survivor-creates-patien...

Watch the video: https://www.youtube.com/watch?v=JQwVQa-fono