I‘m Heather and my husband Martin became suddenly disabled in 2021.We’re in our 40s and had been working full time when he suddenly became seriously ill and then disabled by a series of conditions caused by venous insufficiency of the legs. Before this he was active, busy and self sufficient and he needs help with everything. The condition includes paniculitis, leg ulcers, blisters, lipodermatoschlerosis and odema and is permanent. His mobility is vastly reduced and his pain levels are high.

We had always lived frugally, renting a cheap house, our car is 19 years old and we grew our own food on our allotment but even we were unprepared for the financial impact of sudden illness. We are now deep in debt, struggling to afford the basics and living on one meal a day. Our washing machine broke so I have to use the laundrette which is expensive due to amount of washing this condition generates.

Before this illness we worked, volunteered widely (as we’re sadly childless) and were active in our community, it hurts to ask for help but I don’t know what else to do. We need to pay the bills this winter, MOT our car or Martin is housebound, replace the washing machine, buy a new bed and special mattress so we can stop sleeping in the living room on the settee and adapt the house so he can use upstairs again.

We’ve applied for disability benefits but these take time to process and we’re right at the start of that process. I’ve also sought debt advice due to bailiff visits so I’m doing everything I can. I’ve attached proof of Martin’s condition as I want to be as open as possible.

Thank you for even considering supporting us. Please feel free to ask for any other details and proof xx