Helen Swan seeks support for potentially life-saving cancer treatment abroad.
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Introduction
In a heart-wrenching story of resilience and hope, Helen Swan, a mother from Stonehaven, is fighting against the odds in her battle with cancer. Diagnosed with cervical cancer in 2019, her condition has since progressed to a more advanced stage, affecting her lungs, bones, and liver.
With her children’s well-being as her driving force, Helen is determined to seek a potentially life-saving treatment in Germany.
The Emotional Toll on Family
Helen’s journey has not only been a personal struggle but also an emotional rollercoaster for her family.
With three children, including her youngest son, Harry, who is just 12 years old, the impact of her illness weighs heavily on them. “He still needs his mum as do my other two grown-up children,” Helen shared, expressing the pain of watching her family endure her suffering. The impending arrival of her first grandchild adds another layer of motivation for Helen to keep fighting against this relentless disease.
Seeking Innovative Treatment
In her quest for recovery, Helen is looking towards a treatment known as TACE (targeted arterial chemoembolisation) at Frankfurt University Hospital. This innovative procedure is not available through the NHS or private healthcare in the UK, making it a costly endeavor. Each visit to the clinic comes with a hefty price tag of £5,000, prompting Helen to launch a GoFundMe campaign to raise the necessary funds. So far, her efforts have garnered over £3,000 in donations, showcasing the community’s support for her cause.
Previous Treatments and Current Prognosis
Helen’s medical journey has been fraught with challenges. After initially receiving treatment for stage 2B endocervical adenocarcinoma, she was declared cancer-free in August 2020. However, a routine scan in November 2021 revealed the presence of multiple tumors in her lungs, leading to a devastating prognosis of six months to live. Despite this grim outlook, Helen has explored alternative therapies, including mistletoe therapy, to manage her condition. Her oncologist has confirmed that the cancer is spreading rapidly, yet Helen remains undeterred in her pursuit of TACE treatment.
The Power of Community Support
In the face of adversity, Helen’s friends have rallied around her, organizing various fundraising events such as clothes sales, raffles, and even art auctions. Their unwavering support has been a source of strength for Helen, who expresses her gratitude, saying, “I want to say thank you to everyone, from the bottom of my heart.” With a target of raising at least £40,000, Helen is hopeful that the community will continue to stand by her side as she navigates this challenging journey.
Conclusion
As Helen Swan continues her fight against cancer, her story serves as a poignant reminder of the importance of hope, family, and community support. With her sights set on innovative treatment in Germany, she remains determined to defy the odds and cherish the moments that matter most. If you wish to contribute to Helen’s journey, you can support her through her GoFundMe page.
