Have you ever been flamed for trying to help someone?

Question

I belong to a number of newsgroups with a variety of people on them. On had a poster ask through a third party for money for medical care. No diagnosis or reason for the surgeries, tests, scans, etc. were provided, merely a plea for money. I responded that in order to provide money for medical care, shouldn't the gifter know what the money is going for? I was slammed out of the ball park for even questioning the motives. What gives. If you were about to be scammed, would you want to know? At least be given the opportunity to verify the need?

Answer 1

Don't take all that personally. You were doing your job as a good reporter.

Not too long ago, I saw a news report on TV. A woman had used her child to generate sympathy and collect money. The child was not ill, as she claimed in her solicitations. I think that scam artists use this cause (among others) for income.

You are to be congratulated for suggesting and asking the question that more information is needed. That could also make her campaign stronger -- if it isn't another scam. Any reasonable person would wonder before shelling out money.

Answer 2

You, and every one else on your news group forum, worked very hard for their money, and if they decide to help someone, they deserve to know it’s going for a good cause.

It reminds me of the church who gave a Katrina refugee and her family a house, and she turned around and sells it. They were scammed.

Answer 3

I have a hard time with taking things so personally. I would be very upset by this.
There are people in this world who would just think to themselves, "What an *****" And forget it.
Tha's what you need to do.
They're obviously an *********.

Answer 4

It happens. I was "reported" in Answers for posting a smart-alec response to a stupid question - it really was. (I said, "Stupid question - thanks for the two points.") As far as your situation goes, I'm with you, you did the right thing.