What effect does cancer have on income?
The impact of a cancer diagnosis on household incomes can be substantial. People with cancer often have a huge reduction in their household’s income as a result of their diagnosis.
After many years of fundraising for various animal charities I now find myself needing help myself.
In October 2022 I contracted Covid. Following that I noticed that I was very lethargic all of the time. I put that down to long-covid and had various tests. When these weren’t conclusive my GP thankfully referred me on a Vague Symptom pathway. In June 2023 I was diagnosed with Stomach Cancer. I had laparoscopy surgery to determine the extent of the tumour. Following this, I commenced an intensive course chemotherapy which will end in late November. If the tumour is successfully reduced in size I will then have surgery to have my full stomach removed. My oesophagus will then be attached to my small intestine. The total timescale for chemotherapy, surgery and recovery is approximately 9 months or so.
Previous to my diagnosis I worked full-time as mental health nurse. Unfortunately, due to my diagnosis, treatment and severe side-effects etc I am unable to work. I was initially paid fully but will go to half pay on December 1st then SSP in 2024. I will then have to claim support benefits which won’t amount to enough to pay my bills and general living costs.
As a result, I am humbly turning to the Internet and hoping I can raise enough funds so money troubles aren’t another issue to deal with whilst having my chemotherapy and surgery etc. Chemotherapy is exhausting enough however after the stomach surgery I will have to undergo massive lifestyle changes and recovery will take a long time.
Any help, support and donations would be greatly appreciated.
Best wishes, Paul.
If you can donate ANY amount please do so at: Cancer & Stomach Surgery Living Costs Fundraiser
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