Friend on FB starts a gofundme to raise money for her kid's medical treatment. They need to fly to the opposite coast to see a particular doctor who specializes in this one medical area. They already have insurance but say they need to raise $50k because the doctor is out of network and cover time off work, travel, etc. a large sum of money (considering the out of pocket max covers out of network providers and is usually under $10k). But they are successful in raising close to their goal and keep posting updates to keep donating. It was actually touching to see people I personally know who are not particularly well-off be so generous with donating to this person.
A few months later she posts pictures of her kid on fb, and I can't help but notice the all decked out matching pottery barn furniture, bedding, and wall decor in the background of the kid's room! And then she posts photos of her family, including the kid, on vacation out of their area...for 2 weeks! She says this is the nicest vacation they have had since their honeymoon!
I'm all about travel and all...but don't you think if you are public begging for money and relying on others to give their hard earned money to cover your family's medical expenses, maybe now isn't the time to start upping your lifestyle? Just a thought...
Also, there are charities that pay for this type of thing. American Airlines will fly kids and their families for free for medical care, Ronald McDonald House puts up families and their kids for treatment. Make a Wish will give critically ill kids a vacation.
I have a critically ill child myself so I am familiar with this world. We had a very long consult with social workers and ideally everyone with a really sick kid should. S/he should hook someone up with these programs, but even if not, a simple internet search will find them.
We also have a neighbor with a sick kid who totally exploits Go Fund Me to raise money for things like fixing the grade in her yard so "he has a safe place to stay".
I don't have a Go Fund Me, and we afford it because we have always lived below our means. Even though I had to stop working, we still can afford everything we need (not upgrades). Basically our saving for FIRE has gone way down. I do occasionally sign up for freebies from charities (like a hat), and we do ask friends for meals and occasional babysitting after they have offered. I graciously accept any gift cards given to us from friends (not requested), but have never asked for money ever.
There are people who truly have nothing and a sick kid. But for most people I bet it is a matter refusing to lower their standard of living at all. Drives me crazy to see people capitalize on their cute, sick kids.