Our Family’s Journey Right Now

Hi everyone,

Thank you so much for taking the time to read this.

Over the past months, our world has changed very suddenly. My wife Hannah underwent emergency brain surgery to remove a large tumour from her temporal lobe. The neurosurgeons were able to remove around 75% of it, but we have since learned that it is an aggressive astrocytoma, and Hannah now needs urgent radiotherapy as soon as possible.

Because of the specialist treatment required, we will be based in Liverpool until at least mid-April while Hannah begins this next stage of care. At the same time, we are preparing for the early arrival of our baby daughter, as Hannah needs to deliver sooner so radiotherapy can start without delay.

Hannah’s recovery has made her quite dependent day to day, especially as she has also had to battle meningitis alongside everything else. Because of this, I’ve had to temporarily step away from work so I can be with her full-time in hospital and support her through treatment. I’m hoping to start picking up work again towards the end of February, but this unexpected period has meant we’ve had to rely heavily on our savings, and the financial strain is beginning to build. Hannah is also due to start maternity leave when the baby is born, which means her salary will reduce earlier than epected.

During these months we are facing:

– Accommodation and living costs in Liverpool during Hannah’s treatment

– Travel between the Isle of Man and Liverpool (ferries/flights/transport)

– Ongoing bills at home (rent, utilities, basic bills)

– Day-to-day hospital expenses (food, parking, essentials)

– Loss of income while I step away from work to care for Hannah

– Reduced maternity pay as Hannah’s income drops partway through leave

– Travel and accommodation for Hannah’s family to visit and support her

– Additional medical and recovery-related costs not fully covered

– Baby costs for items needed while in Liverpool

_ Unexpected costs as we navigate treatment and the early arrival of our daughter

We are also seeking help through various charities, but many costs still fall outside what can be covered.

We’ve created this page for those who have kindly asked how they can help in a practical way. Please don’t feel any pressure at all, but if you are able to support us, it would mean more than we can put into words.

More than anything, we ask for continued prayers for Hannah, for our baby girl, and for strength for our family in the months ahead.

Thank you for standing with us.

David & Hannah