Getting back on track

This week is Rowland Hill Fund (RHF) Awareness Week, your chance to understand more about the kind of work our in-house charity does, and learn how you can support those who are struggling financially.

Darlington postwoman, Helen Stewart, recently received help from the Fund while undergoing intensive treatment for cancer. You can watch her talk about it in this week’s RMtv. Here is her story:

Helen’s world was turned upside down when she was told she had breast cancer. The diagnosis, in November 2017, came as a huge shock after she had found a lump just a few weeks earlier. She was put on an immediate treatment plan, putting her job of 12 years on hold.

Helen underwent four rounds of chemotherapy and had to have a mastectomy. But when cancer was then found in a lymph node she underwent further surgery and chemotherapy, as well as 15 cycles of radiotherapy.

During her treatment her husband Kevin was made redundant and the family soon started to struggle with bills, having to use their savings and credit cards to pay for everyday essentials like petrol and food.

‘We were starting to worry,’ said Helen. ‘My wages had obviously come down and it was hard for my husband to find a job.’

Macmillan Cancer Support mentioned the Rowland Hill Fund to Helen and she got in touch after her treatment finished in October 2018. The Fund was able to help – granting the family £2,134 towards mortgage payments.

‘I didn’t think I’d be able to get help but I did and it was a godsend,’ added Helen. ‘It took a lot of pressure off.’

Kevin has since found a new job and Helen has returned to work part-time as she continues to recover. She has regular hospital appointments for injections and her condition is closely monitored.

‘We’re getting back on track,’ said Helen. ‘The doctors said I’m cured but I won’t get the all clear for five years.’

If you think you or a colleague may need help, call the Rowland Hill Fund confidential helpline on 0345 600 4586 to start the process. If necessary, you can also call on a colleague’s behalf to help them take the first step.