<p>Hello CC, When my friend told me to look into applying to Stanford I checked it out and I instantly fell in love with Stanford. I know in my heart that this where I want to be and I think I have a decent chance at admission. However, even if I get this legendary accept I don't know if I can afford it. I know they do very well in terms of financial aid when your income is lower than 100k. However I think my parents income is a little over that and I am kind of worried that I wont get much for financial aid. I know, I know; if my parents make that much I should be able to pay for it. However, 2 or 3 years ago my mom was diagnosed with melanoma, skin cancer, and she was very close to dying of it. She went through multiple surgeries and had to undergo extensive treatment for 2 years. All of this was very, very expensive, to the tune of thousands a week. Although, she has made her way through it (thank God!), we are still in a tremendous amount of debt and are struggling with everything. So, my question is, is it possible to plead my case to get special financial aid? Please, any answers will help. Thanks.</p>