Bombing Victims Told Not Enough Money In One Fund To Pay Everyone
BOSTON (CBS) -- Boston Marathon bombing victims say it has been a long stressful road.
"I am a strong American and I will not ask for a hand out," victim Wayne Gilchrist said.
But Gilchrist also says he's in dire need. He's one of many survivors of the Boston Marathon bombings.
Today he suffers from a broken wrist and mental trauma.
"I've been crying everyday," Gilchrist said at the One Fund Boston public meeting.
One Fund Boston administrator Kenneth Feinberg says right now there is just not enough money to go around to victims of the Boston Marathon bombings.
Feinberg unveiled the draft protocol at public meetings Monday and Tuesday.
"When you look at the horror that happened here in Boston; the number of deaths and the number of horrible physical injuries, there isn't enough money," he said, remarking that expectations need to be lowered when it comes to how much money victims may receive.
Right now, One Fund Boston has raised more than $28 million, but of that money, only $11 million is in the bank with $17 million pledged.
"We don't know how much money there'll be. We don't have information on extent of injuries. It's premature to put dollars next to names," Feinberg said. "There's not enough money for everybody to get 100-percent compensation."
According to the protocol, the families of those who lost loved ones and individuals who suffered double amputations or brain damage in the Boston Marathon bombings would receive the highest payments.
Those who received physical injuries and suffered the amputation of a limb will be the next highest priority for funds followed by those who were physically injured and hospitalized overnight.
Feinberg urged claimants to spend time on their forms, doctors should provide a letter about the injuries, and victim's should give a "worst-case scenario."
WBZ NewsRadio 1030's Bernice Corpuz reports
Bombing Victims Told Not Enough Money For Everyone
Feinberg said claims will be accepted from May 15 to June 15 and checks will go out to victims on June 30.
The One Fund will stay open after June 30 to help those that may develop complications down the line, Feinberg said.
Alyissa Loring was at the meeting on behalf on her sister Brittany Loring who suffered brain damage and has undergone multiple surgeries.
She says after hearing Gilchrist breakdown she now wants to make sure everyone gets the help they need.
"My sister may get less money but she deserves to be compensated," Loring said.
