FANTASTIC idea. I do think it needs to be closely monitored because of fraud. Maybe we could set up a committee that would be responsible for choosing the people. We could all volunteer for the committee and then take turns like 3 months, 6 months or whatever is appropriate. But this is definately a WONDERFUL idea.

Good thinking!!

Jo

We also need an events section..that would be helpful in learn about the diabetes events around the country.

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It's good idea, and one I've thought about before, but the abuse part always gets me stuck. You want to help as many people as you can but the more you help the easier it is to abuse and the less money you have to do it.

Realistically, without having people sign forms and provide documentation of hardship (in the case of inability to afford treatment) like most of the pharmaceutical companies and other charities do, there is no way to prevent somebody taking advantage of it. I could get a friend of mine to post that the needed $500 for insulin and strips and make up some sob story that pulls on the heart strings, if you go for it then we both make $250. It's a very unfortunate situation that the people who really need help have difficulty getting it because of people abusing the system. Maybe a better idea is to hook up with an existing service that helps with the cost of medications and doctors visits and pay into them. Then you could push that service here which may end up helping more people than you could just giving out money on request as well as having the services anti abuse policies in place to ensure that people abusing the system would be kept to a minimum or eliminated.

On the subject of charitable donations for events or whatnot. Most places will have some kind of online or mail in donation process. If you make it policy to either use the official website to donate or send the donation directly to the charity/organization it should eliminate almost all abuse

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Wow, I am very pleased that Diabetic Connect wants to give even more than they already have to those in need by creating this site, however I too am concerned of the nightmare it would create for those that tried to manage it.
Having been an investigator with a major police force for over 17 years, I can assure you that people can come up with some very ingenious ways to cheat the system. I am not sure of how many hard feelings would be developed by those that did not get the assistance who may have actualy needed it more than those that did.
I applaud your desires to give more, and would be more than happy to volunteer whatever efforts I could to help you achieve that goal if that is the wish of the community, but I also strongly encourage you to find another way to help.
The creation of this site has done an incredible job at helping many in need already, with all the friendships being developed for the support, the sharing of thoughts and information, and so on. My hats off to everyone on this site that is making it such an incredible place to belong!
John Morris

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Last edited about 1 year ago

I can see that abuse or fraud is a major concern. It is for us too. We certainly could find protection by only donating to non-profit organizations. We could still sponsor "walk for the cure" teams, making payments directly to JDRF, ADA, etc. Perhaps members of the site could keep their eyes open to spot organizations and programs that are trying to make a difference and we could donate directly to those programs instead of to individuals.

But we don't want to lose the element of making a difference to individuals as well. I guess anytime you're giving a charitable donation, there's always an element of risk that you have to accept.

Anyway, keep the ideas coming. Let's not give up on the idea just because some people might try to abuse it. Let's keep thinking about how we could make this a great program that everyone could feel a part of.

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Last edited about 1 year ago

Maybe we would just donate money to organizations that make requests whether non profits or not.

We could do all that we can to validate identity, need, and purpose.

But, what if one of our members really needed a break or some help...could this program address their needs. Wouldn't it be better to help out the honest folks even if some fraudulent ones got through the cracks?

We have got to come up with a way for the community to help out each other with a little lift up every now and then.

Stead

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I think an area that helps those in need is a wonderful idea. Perhaps we could do it by location (state/country). Just listing the resource sites would be helpful. I see the links in our discussions, but having one area devoted to resources would be very helpful. I love the donation plan and it is difficult to decide who's truthful and who is not. By donating to an existing organization that would benefit our members would eliminate our need to distribute the cash/supplies ourselves.

I belong to a grief group. One of the young members who's boyfriend had died, did not have the money to keep up the virtual website for her loved one. She did not ask for money, this is a group where we share the pain of death. I was able to sponsor the memorial site because there was a click to donate to thru Paypal tokeep the site up. I was able to do this anonymously and now the virtual memorial is permanent.

As the economy worsens in my area, more social programs are being cut and employees laid off. I'm not a saint, but there have been times in my life when the kindness of strangers helped my family when we needed it the most.

Kate

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What a great idea. Yes, let's help each other. Connie4849 T2

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I think this is incredible. Will it be in it's own category so it doesn't get lost in the shuffle of discussion topics? Will we be able to search for it? I think this is a great idea, thank you so much John and Amy for caring about us so much.

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I feel that this is a wonderful idea and others should be willing to do the same. If more organizations would step forward and catch on to this would be long awaited gift for those who has a need. It is beautiful people like you John and Amy that will make a big difference in the fight against this unfriendly monster and God Bless the both of you. It may help that you can have in place a method of verification for those who are asking for the help. Like most other organizations they have put in place a method to verify the person immediate need. Eventhough it may be at times very hard to decide who gets what, it's one way to protect the plan that you have developed. For a person like me who has lost their job and no real income and no insurance to help along the way, this can really be a source of help that is benefical to those who are really in need and have been turned down for help the way I have. But this an idea that is much needed and welcomed to those who will need it.

God Bless

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Great idea! I just saw my doc & he said some of the Pharmaceutical Company's will give the meds where there is a need. I haven't contacted any yet as far as meds, but the Diabetic community have given meters and strips. I just found one that is giving me the strips (they have most brands) The initials are CDC but I don't have the information right in front of me. Liberty has advertised too.

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I have to say you brought tears to my eyes when I read this post.
What a blessing that would be for ones.
I suport this 100%
Very very awesome idea.
There are angels that walk upon the earth.

Huggles
Catherine

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We are really trying to determine the benefits and challenges of two paths.

The easiest is to monthly write checks to the winners to do with the proceeds what they said they were going to do with it. Problem with this path is fraud.

The harder route is to align different partners who would provide "services" to the person or organization. The big benefit is that it would help to eliminate a lot of potential egregious fraud. The challenge is it would take a lot of time and effort on our part to set up all the relationships.

Thoughts.

Stead

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Okay, now for the most part we think this is a great idea. What can we do to help you John and Amy? I know you have the connections, but are there things we can do to help DC be a life saver for so many?

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I think this is a wonderful program idea and I agree with the lady that commented that good always wins in the end. There have been times that I haven't been able to get medication I needed because the cost was too high. Another example, I've needed dental work (serious) for about 2 years and I can't find a dentist to help me because I have no insurance coverage. Even the dentist I have gone to for over 10 years, when my insurance quit, my dentist quit on me. So, ANYTHING that can be done to help people in need is a wonderful idea and God Bless!

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Last edited about 1 year ago

I think giving vouchers for medicine, syringes and other supplies would be more appropriate than giving money. People will be less likely to ask for the help ( I meant less likely to abuse the help) if they can only get medicine & supplies. Small voucher amounts would require less scrutiny, and help a number of people each month rather than just one. You might even get Walgreens or CVS to administer and contribute to the program.

I don't need help, but I lost my job and insurance in May, and can tell you it gets tough when you need to visit your Doc to get renewed prescriptions. I've been buying my insulin from Canada so I don't need the scrip and it's cheaper. What really kills me is the cost of test strips; it's got me re-thinking national health care (different discussion).

This is a great idea, and I'm glad I found this website. I've watched a few of the videos and read the blogs and found tons of useful information.

Thanks, Steve

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Sound good,perfect if using paypal?

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I did not mean to make it sound in my earlier post that everyone is bad and would take advantage...LOL
I just meant that it could become a real nightmare for those trying to manage it. Of course there will be bad people taking advantage, but overall, yes people are good and will not abuse the system. The abusers will easily be spotted over time. I know that I constantly get emails from people asking for financial assistance due to loss of jobs or surgeries or whatever, but that does not mean I give to them all...LOL
John and Amy, I would certainly be willing to do whatever my part would be to help you succeed in moving this project forward.
John

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Wow! I am a new member and already I feel the love here! I just wrote in an email to Amy that I have been scared into taking care of my condition. By using one of the two strips i have left I tested today and got a 483 reading! My last test strip readiing was on 5/17/2008. I was saving these for an occassion when it just didn't feel right, you know, bad headache, woozy etc.. but this morning a vien was popping out in my head!!! So I said better check the sugar, well actually, I was guilted into using it, I really thought it was my last strip but 2 were stuck together! I had been able to maintain my levels with alot of walking and diet, I moved to Georgia last week and that went out the window cause I tried to walk and almost passed out - I am also hiding the serverity of my condition from my family cause I dont want them to "worry overmuch" LOL I see I am rambling - another sign to me - anyone else high levels affects like this? To get to the point thanks for letting me know somewhere on this site that I can get a meter with free strips!! Thjis will help me until I get a job!!! I would like to assist in this program any way that I am able.

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What a great Idea but as the rest I too am concerned with the ones that would abuse the program. In my count there are the local shelters that I have donated ecess strips and old meters. also unused medicines (from when my hubby's meds are changed) they are so very grateful many homeless still need meds. Aslo with the economy they have so many requests for meters test strips and just assistance with purchasing them. Maybe we could team up with local shelters if someone needs assistance make a donation through them ( they check to make sure it is needed and they dont have the resources) Also Whoever is in charge from our group and they have time or someone who could represent the group call on the drug manf and get assistance info? pass it to the group? just a couple of suggestions....

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Fantastic idea. I believe the vision you guys hadand managed to fulfill in setting up this site will prove that you will somehow accomplish this new goal.
With the prayers and support of all of us it will come to pass.
Keep on with the vision.













fact that you guys set up this wonderful site

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i love it and am all for it!

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I think it is a terrific idea and if I can help in any way let me know!!!!!!!


Diane

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Last edited about 1 year ago

Wow this community never ceases to amaze me... This is a great idea...I'm just wondering if we could get some support and/or ideas from the Diabetic Association... I wish there was some way to have a rally or conference where we could meet and discuss options like this. I feel certain there is a multitude of various talents and expertise in our community to help head up a project like this. Anything I can do to help jsut let me know

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being a brand new member I have so much to explore here but to this program idea is great and the voucher system works and yes doctors do accept vouchers I was on a program where I had a certain amount per year and it really worked. I had to have a knee operation. It was a blessing. I also think a list of places where you can get help or organizations to try. Sometimes people just don't know where to start and are scared. been there!

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Something like a gift card could be the answer here John. I guess you could or Amy or whomever could contact the Doctors in whatever state or city the lucky person is in that is receiving the gift and or labs, whatever the case maybe then issue that person his/her funds on the card. Or maybe set it up sorta like an Insurance agency and have contact numbers for ,again you or whomever to be contacted for payment. That way no one has the chance to abuse any money that is not in their hands Lets face it we might all be good people but Murphy's Law applies here as well. Just a thought.

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I absolutely love this idea.

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would it be possible to have a secion for web links. this way you can see all the weblinks and not miss any of them. There are so many wonderful links posted here, I know I must of missed some!

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I think this is a great idea. There are so many people that are in need.I would gladly be part of it.

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What a wonderful idea,Just the satisfaction of be able to give back, to those in need.In todays economy we could be next. I know there will always be someone that will try and take advatage of a program like this,but does that mean we shouldn't try. I belong to a small group of ostomy patients and we have a program that we collect from our membersproducts that they are no longer useing[they have changed companies, we ask for free samples offered,or unfortunatly a member passes awaywe collect all these suppliesand offer them to members in need and send the rest to an overseas org, that distributes themI don't know why with the help of corporate co. and members of this site we can;t do the same type of thing .

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What a wonderful idea,Just the satisfaction of be able to give back, to those in need.In todays economy we could be next. I know there will always be someone that will try and take advatage of a program like this,but does that mean we shouldn't try. I belong to a small group of ostomy patients and we have a program that we collect from our membersproducts that they are no longer useing[they have changed companies, we ask for free samples offered,or unfortunatly a member passes awaywe collect all these suppliesand offer them to members in need and send the rest to an overseas org, that distributes themI don't know why with the help of corporate co. and members of this site we can;t do the same type of thing .

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I just now saw your posting on your "Diabetic Connect Gives Back" discussion. (I've been having trouble with this new computer.) I think it's a wonderful idea. I too find that far too many diabetic people have trouble getting the equipment and supplies they need to take care of themselves, I sometimes feel guilty because here I am, with all of mine paid for by medical insurances. But, as there must be a but, the comments posted before mine concerning watching out for fraud, is valid. I think it's sad that we must think of this, but it's a way of life today. You get to be afraid to be generous because the help often does not get to the oens it is intended for. So let's pray that the good Lord will inspire the ones responsible for the discernment. I second the motion and I sincerely hope that the help will go to where it needs to go.

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As stated this is a great idea, unfortunately whenever these things are done there will be some abuses/abusers. There is no sure way of stopping or preventing this until people stop doing it. It is most unfair when it is done escpecially when it hampers the ones who really need the help. All we must do is collectively monitor our behavior because we can't change anyone else and not kick ourselves too badly when we are taken advantage of and ripped off and hope we have the good sense and guidance to select those who truly warrant the assistance when it is requested. I know that some and/or different months we all are either finacillay or emotionally bankrupt or close to it and get by as best we can. Just knowing this site is here is a help to me even though I am unable to visit as much as I would like to. My love and friendship is there for all who need and want it.

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I agree with you. This site has saved my life. I don'know what I would do without it.

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John,

I am so glad we were finally able to announce this great "give back" program.

Regarding fraud, I'm sure we can figure out a system to "vet" the applications to make sure they are legitimate. Also, the money should go directly to the organization, or to the vendor making the needed devices/supplies/medications rather than handing over the $$ to individuals. That should help make sure everything is legit.

I for one would like to see some short videos of the winners and how they used their money posted here, so we can all share in the satisfaction of seeing some fellow patients get the help they need.

Thanks!
- AmyT

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I think that is a great idea. It would be nice to have the winners on here.

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i LOVE THE IDEA. YOUR GREAT JOHN....

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Last edited about 1 year ago

it's a great ideal, when this going to happen.

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Just wondering if anything new came up on this discussion. Haven't heard anything about it for the last 2 mons. It seemed to get really good responses...Debe

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i hope you get this up and flying. for people with lack of fianances, deciding between medicine and food is a no win condition.

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I think this is a great idea! I can thankfully say that we are not in this position. We would love to help and "give back". I am a newer member and my 15 year old daughter has hypoglycemia. Since it is not under control at this point, I see everyday the effects of her sugar level lows and this doesn't even include the symptoms you can see. She also has decided to be proactive and is doing her science fair project on diabetes. This is a great idea!

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Great idea! I think I'll propose it to my pancreatic site as well! Hope this one flies - I'd be happy to support it.

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John and Amy,

Thank you so much for all that you have done already let alone trying to set this up. WOW! You two are amazing human beings, with HUGE hearts that all I can say. As you probably can tell I am totally for this. I think the voucher slips, phone calls (signed permission to talk with doctor), whatever it'll take I am sure you will figure something out.
As I read through there is concern for fraud though with some great ideas some people calmed down about it. It seems like most of us are for this and would like to help in any way we can. We are a team! I love you all by the way! I really do not have a family besides Ty and my kids are not with me. So really you all are my family, thank you for listening to blab all the time. Okay, here I am writing a book so I will shuddup! Thanks! *HugS* Also, Ty wanted to say the same things I just did so this is from him as well, he agrees with me, thanks again! Ty N Sheila

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Last edited 4 months ago

this is fantastic idea there are so many on here that could benifit from this.but how will you be protected so there is no fraud i sure hope you can have some good input on this as there is so much of it around these days. thanks for all yoour hard work i really enjoy this sight yoou do such a wondwefull job.you have my vote for this hope you all can make it happen.

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Awesome idea! I would be concerned about fraud, but I also see the need in so many, especially these days.

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I think you’ve got a great idea, and the numbers of potential “Recipients” is probably growing daily. I’d like to throw my 2 cents into this discussion and offer some different thoughts. I’ve seen a lot of people in need, I’ve been one of those people in need several times in my life.

Most successful assistance programs typically involves a brick and mortar organization, a physical office for people to come into and establish need and request assistance. Doing this virtually over the Internet could be done but it would involve the human verification of electronic forms, potential interaction with some agency, medical office, or hospital to establish identity and need. With the current HIPPA privacy rules, and Identity theft that’s going on….you’ll probably encounter a great number of places that simply won’t do ANYTHING over the phone or by fax.

Who establishes need? Is it done by a poll or by some sort of voting program you install on this site. What happens if everyone of your “Candidates” is really in need? The potential for hurt feelings and division over the selection is there, but this is a pretty together community so maybe that’s not an issue.

I’m an IT Data Network guy and if you want to get around something web based bad enough…you can do it easily. It happens all the time. Giving part of the money or resources to an existing organization that’s already setup and good at doing that type of work (vet or screen) is maybe one of the best scenarios.

I’d also like to offer another idea if I can…..I think the message of hope and support given on this site through this community is the greatest asset or resource you could ever give to anyone in the world.

I know the power of that kind of message. I’ve seen it first hand (in other settings) and it truly saves peoples lives. Spreading the message that it’s ok to have Diabetes and “We can all do this together” is the greatest gift here. Because it doesn’t involve the exchange of goods or services that can run out…..it’s the exchange of humanity, hope, and compassion to another human being. That’s where the magic is.

This place obviously has that magic.

You can’t put a price on that. You could promote this community more and make this available to more people. You currently rank #99,011 of the top visited sites on the internet (Google is #1) according to alexa.com …and that’s a reliable industry number. That’s a fair number but it could be much better. Maybe some event sponsorship, and assistance programs that raise the overall awareness about Diabetes and this site.

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I think this is a wonderful idea. There are so many out there who can't afford the bare essentials needed to mantain a healthy diabetic lifesyle. Medications and testing supplies are so expensive. I am finding this out myself since my company has changed to an HMO. I have to change my endocrinologist because the one I have seen for many years is outside the HMO network. The out of network costs are outrageous.

I also know what it is like to be uninsured. I couldn't keep track of my BS readings. This was before they started giving away free meters. I couldn't afford it. So, I have been there. Hopefully, not again.

Judi

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Sounds like a great idea. Glad I have good insurance for now. Our insurance pays for everything 100% except meds. You never know when they will take it away. I'll help however I can.

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