When I was diagnosed with goitres in 2000 I didn’t realise just how dramatically it would change my life.
I was told my only option was a thyroidectomy. Just five days after getting home after the operation, I began to suffer breathing difficulties and was re-admitted. The problem was diagnosed as Chronic Obstructive Airways Disease (COAD).
At no point had I been warned this was a possible side-effect of the operation. Eight months later I was physically destroyed and had to leave my job.
I felt totally at a loss. I had no idea then I would end up with a condition that would disable me for life. I just knew I was suddenly totally devoid of energy and it was getting worse by the day.
On top of this I lost my home as well as my job. Physically and emotionally I was at a rock bottom and developed depression.
Adapting to my significantly reduced income was tough. It took a further three and a half years to get my condition diagnosed as hyperparathyroidism. It was only then that the full impact hit me: I would be disabled for life.
Although I was drowning in debt, I just kept swimming as hard as I could without asking for help from the state.
I was only 36. I began volunteering part time at the Citizen’s Advice Bureau because I knew if I admitted defeat at that point and, didn’t at least try to get voluntary work, I would never get back on my feet.
Thank goodness I did because a colleague showed me an article in the Liverpool Echo about Elizabeth Finn Care.
The article explained it was a charity that gave financial help to ex-professionals who, for a multitude of reasons, were unable to work. It struck a chord with me immediately.
My self esteem was very low by this time and I was beginning to feel
worthless. My first thought was ‘they won't want to help me. I've got no chance.’ I did my utmost to subdue these feelings. I knew I had nothing to lose and everything to gain by approaching EFC.
From the outset, I knew I was dealing with a very organised, sensitive and supportive organisation.
The professionalism of EFC, frankly, blew me away. The speed of their response was phenomenal as was every other stage of the process. Everyone involved with my case was on the ball and quick to get back to me.
EFC has moved me hugely in many ways. My caseworker, a wonderful, warm human being, became the "face" of EFC for me.
I still don’t feel worthy of the financial help EFC gives me. I always go through a huge internal battle whenever I have to ask for help. My caseworker always replies to my requests with warmth and humility which restores my dignity.
The monthly allowance saved me from drowning in debt because, until I was diagnosed with Hyperparathyroidism, I wasn’t eligible for Disability Living Allowance. I can now manage my finances better.
EFC restored my self esteem and confidence. For me it has been much more than a financial help organisation: it has helped to heal a wounded soul.
I would encourage anyone who is in a similar position to me to apply. Just put your pride to one side and take a chance on getting help from this wonderful organisation.
EFC saved my life and it could help save yours. There is no dignity in doing it all on your own: only more struggle and pain. Pride won’t ward off debt collectors or buy you the nutritious food you need to stay well. Nor will it feed your children or animals.
You might feel because of your background you should be able to cope but hard times and disasters happen to all of us regardless of who we are.
My advice is just go for it and apply – you’ve got nothing to lose.
