Watchdogs for health care
Meet four Money heroes dedicated to helping other Americans cut their health care costs.
Cutting housing costs for cancer patients
Ann Calahan, 53
On a crusade since: 2004
Day job: President, Joe's House
Achievement: Creating a website that provides info on thousands of discounted lodgings near medical centers.
Why she's a hero: When Calahan's husband, Joe, had to travel to Texas for cancer treatment in the 1990s, the New York travel industry veteran faced an extra task: finding affordable lodging near the hospital. Seven years after Joe's death, memories of that chore led her to launch JoesHouse.org. The site offers 1,900 options for patients and their families, from discounted hotel rooms to free apartments.
Quote: "The whole idea is, you have enough to worry about. Let us help you find a place to stay."
Helping seniors save on health coverage
John McDonough, 77
On a crusade since: 1995
Day job: Retired engineering manager, volunteer
Achievement: Assisting thousands of other retirees in saving money on Medicare.
Why he's a hero: An aerospace engineer for 40 years, McDonough signed up in 1995 to help out at SHIIP, where he guides seniors through the Medicare benefits maze and advocates in billing disputes. The Cedar Rapids, Iowa, native, a standout volunteer, aided 574 clients last year. His biggest victory: retrieving one woman's $10,000 overpayment.
Quote: "About 80% of people can save on Medicare Part D if they change plans every year."