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Enid, a trained nurse and housekeeper, and a single parent with four children, found herself struggling to support her family. With food and fuel prices on the rise she says she couldn’t help but notice the increase in cost each time she made it to the shops.

 

Twenty years ago she developed MS and was forced to stop working. Not long after she developed osteoarthritis, which means she is now confined to a wheelchair.

 

Then she contacted Elizabeth Finn Care who helped restore her independence by paying for a new wheelchair, a special bed and much needed repairs to her car. She also receives a special hamper at Christmas. She says, “Since I first applied six years ago, Elizabeth Finn Care has given me much needed extra support.”

 

But the biggest support for Enid comes in the form of a beautiful assistance dog called Echo. “He makes me feel safe and he allows me to live a life that’s full, independent and fun. If I ever feel down, he gives me a good reason to get up in the morning. He helps me mentally and physically. He is not just my helper, but my companion, my security, my best friend and mate.” The money Elizabeth Finn Care provides to Enid helps towards Echo’s upkeep. “Without him I’d lose everything that makes life dear.”

 

 

Andrew and his wife Hardesh both had successful careers when, in 2002, the birth of their second child Emily changed their lives forever. During birth Emily suffered massive brain trauma and now has cerebral palsy. This means that she cannot breathe or swallow without assistance.

 

In the weeks that followed both Andrew and Hardesh were forced to leave their jobs and become full-time carers for Emily. Furthermore, the couple have two other children to look after. With basic costs of living on the rise and the addition of medical bills, assistance from Elizabeth Finn Care gives Andrew the support he needs to provide for his family.

 

“Elizabeth Finn Care have always understood our needs and been so efficient.”

 

After applying to Elizabeth Finn Care, Andrew’s family received a grant to buy a second-hand car, which has given them the freedom and mobility they need for Emily’s care appointments. They also receive an annual Extra Needs Gift – which is especially welcome when there are unexpected repair bills, or when an appliance breaks down.

 

Andrew says without the monthly allowance and greatly-appreciated extra grants from Elizabeth Finn Care, the family would be mired in debt – and the support is not only reassuring but also reduces stress and pressure on the rest of the family. Hardesh says: “It has meant that, as a family we know that if we get really get stuck there’s a support network there for us.”