A struggle in solitude

70-year-old Andrea* has faced a myriad of health challenges throughout her life. Her journey began with a breast cancer diagnosis in 2003, followed by a relapse in April 2019. Despite being in remission, she battles additional health conditions such as rheumatoid arthritis, thyroid issues, and kidney problems. Her health took a severe turn in October 2022 when she suffered a stroke. During emergency investigations, a brain tumor – the cause of her fainting spells and memory loss – was discovered. 

Despite these adversities, Andrea remains independent, living alone and estranged from her two sons. To alleviate her financial burden, Ray of Hope aims to extend her support for a further 4 months.

Support Andrea:

We are fundraising for $400 per month for four more months to cover some of her basic needs, including household and phone bills, meals, and adult diapers. From March to August 2024, your kind support allowed us to provide $520 a month in support to her.

Our current fundraising target has been reduced due to an increase in food vouchers received from another foundation monthly.

Andrea’s Story:

Andrea’s resilience and determination have been evident throughout her life. When her son battled leukaemia as a child, she faced significant financial strain, borrowing money to cover his medical expenses. Despite leaving her job in her twenties due to health issues, Andrea continued to navigate her own health challenges alongside caring for her son. Her health battles extend beyond cancer, to include osteoporosis, high cholesterol, hypertension, and proteinuria. The discovery of the brain tumor has added further complexity to her situation. Recently her fainting spells and memory loss seem to have exacerbated, compounded by chronic depression and anxiety.

While Andrea has received social assistance in the past, she became ineligible when her sons reached adulthood. Despite losing contact with both sons, she has declined to file for maintenance under the Commission of Maintenance of Parents Act, not wanting to implicate her children. This decision renders her ineligible for social assistance, further straining her finances.

Your contribution will significantly ease Andrea’s burden, allowing her to focus on her health and well-being while exploring longer-term solutions with her Senior Services caseworker. Together, we can provide Andrea with the support and care she deserves as she continues her journey toward health and healing.

*Andrea’s name has been changed to protect her privacy.