Stuart
When Stuart was diagnosed with Atypical Ewing Sarcoma, he turned to the Ben Fund for help
Stuart has always been a very active person, enjoying football, golf, cycling and going to the gym. Following surgery on his knee to repair a torn ligament, a persistent back pain got much worse and investigations unfortunately led to a diagnosis of Atypical Ewing Sarcoma, a rare form of bone or soft tissue cancer.
The condition meant that Stuart would face several stays in hospital for scans, biopsies,
surgery, chemotherapy, radiotherapy and physiotherapy.
With the knowledge that surgery to remove the tumour would affect his mobility, Stuart knew he would need support to adapt. Although he contributed to the ICE Benevolent Fund, Stuart wasn’t entirely sure what kind of help the Ben Fund could offer. Luckily, his boss told him to get in touch and he has been overwhelmed at the depth of support available and the knowledge of the Ben Fund staff team and volunteers.
Stuart and his wife had already begun to think practically about housing adaptations to accommodate a loss of mobility. They needed to adapt the staircase and had received quotations on making the bathroom more accessible, so Stuart could return home at weekends from the spinal unit. The bathroom adaptations enabled Stuart to be so much more independent. There is a flat surface, so he can wheel in to the shower, as well as grab rails so he can pull himself up. Being a young man, of just 30yrs, who has always been extremely fit and active, it was incredibly important to him to regain that independence.
Occupational therapy had also recommended adaptations to the house to improve conditions for Stuart while he recuperated from surgery, chemotherapy and radiotherapy.
“The Ben Fund eased the financial pressure which meant I could adapt the bathroom to a much more accessible wet room.
.......being able to be at home, in a more comfortable and accessible environment has made a massive difference to my wellbeing and recovery.”
As well as being supported financially, Stuart had a visit from a Ben Fund representative, Keith Patterson, to talk about his situation and help with the application process. Keith evaluated Stuart’s mobility issues and the property. He was extremely helpful and his experience of dealing with others in similar situations, meant he was able to suggest things which had not previously been considered to make life so much easier. Perhaps it’s the engineering background, as well as the knowledge that comes with supporting people applying to the Ben Fund that gave him additional insight.
Lindsay, Head of Casework and Services, had regular discussions about the application and was able to offer expert advice and support throughout. Stuart and his wife also met with the Ben Fund’s Independent Financial Advisor (IFA) with a view to managing their finances through this difficult time and going forward should that be necessary.
Stuart has now finished his chemotherapy and is focussed on gaining weight and getting stronger and more mobile. After being supported brilliantly by his company, Severfield UK, throughout his illness, he’s delighted to be back working, from home for a few hours a day to begin with and on a phased return.
The Ben Fund has granted a respite payment, to go towards a much-needed break away, following what has been an extremely challenging 18 months, both physically and emotionally. Having always been an active, goal-oriented person, Stuart is driven to be as strong as he can be for his trip and is looking forward to enjoying some time away.
“The extra funds have made a massive difference to us. My wife and I wouldn’t be able to have this holiday, without the contribution from the Ben Fund. It has given me a specific target, a goal to work towards, and having that focus is driving me to be as strong as I possibly can be.”
The Ben Fund can support you through periods of illness and provide funds for housing adaptations and respite breaks. Get in touch if you think we can help.
The extra funds have made a massive difference to us