Our Story

There is absolutely a need for Kindred Box, and I've known this for decades, mainly because I used to pay out-of-pocket (retail) for my ostomy supplies.

In 1994, at age 21, I underwent permanent ileostomy surgery for Crohn's disease. In my 20s and 30s, paying for these essential supplies was a heavy financial burden. My employer insured me, but the policy wouldn’t cover durable medical equipment (DME) without first meeting a high deductible. I’ll never forget the feeling of desperately needing help. I thought, is this the way it will be for the rest of my life?

During those decades, I educated myself about health insurance. Over the years, I’ve had high deductibles, co-pays, and private pay insurance. I’ve also been dropped for having a “pre-existing condition." I had a brief period without insurance coverage. The bottom line is. . . America doesn't have a healthcare system; it has a health insurance system that is very confusing and can be extremely expensive.

This article says, “The annual ostomy product costs per patient are estimated to be $1,000 to $1,200 on average globally.” That sounds right if you have outstanding insurance with a nominal co-pay, but that figure can be significantly higher for those not insured or underinsured.

Reading messages from people struggling to afford their supplies was upsetting. It motivated me to take action and do something.

“Had a huge blowout this morning and this is my last ostomy bag. I'll be surprised if it lasts overnight. I have baggies and a little tape. Guess that's how it'll have to be done until my insurance gets sorted out. Depression is hitting me hard.”

–Jessica in New York

So, in 2017, it began with a simple question.

How can I help people in America who cannot afford ostomy supplies?

The answer came loud and clear: Collect as many donations as possible and get these supplies to the people who need them most. An undertaking that was not so clear.

Looking at my finances, another question came up. How do you start a charity without proper funding? The answer is: You just start.

I asked many patrons to help us get started. Caring nurses contributed. Companies and foundations gave money. Families of loved ones who passed (affectionately known as our Kindred Spirits) donated their excess supplies. All of this generosity is why Kindred Box exists. Kindred meaning alike and connected, as in. . . we are in this together!

I understand this initiative doesn't solve the big problems. But until we can get more States to pass laws requiring all major commercial medical insurance policies to cover the provision of ostomy supplies (like New York did in 2014 and Maryland in 2015), this is how we will pay it forward.

When you hear firsthand the impact Kindred Box has made in someone’s life, it's the best feeling in the world.

“The ostomy supplies from Kindred Box helped us recover what was lost from Hurricane Harvey. It gave us peace of mind and was one less thing to worry about while trying to rebuild our lives and continue with my father's cancer treatment. We truly appreciate your help in our greatest time of need.”

– Pia in Texas

A lot has changed since my surgery in 1994. Ostomy products have improved, there are significantly more medical suppliers, and the internet has increased access to resources. Yet some things remain the same. We’re still in this silent crisis, so I’m calling for massive change. Ostomates need affordable supplies and deserve ongoing expert ostomy care—no matter their financial situation.

In a way, I wish I wasn't in this struggle because I wish the struggle didn’t exist. But I'd have many regrets if I knew the problems and continued to ignore them.

This philanthropy work started in 2017. It was named Kindred Box in 2018 and became a 501(c)(3) nonprofit organization in 2019. Looking back now, this charity has been 30-plus years in the making. My connection to the community we serve deepens with each request for assistance. That connection, I believe, is the foundation of Kindred Box.

I want to express my sincere appreciation for taking the time to read our story and consider making a gift to further our mission.

With gratitude,

Christine Kim
Founder & President