I am writing to support Macmillan Cancer Support's campaign to freeze out fuel poverty for cancer patients.
Rising fuel prices have affected many of us, but for cancer patients the effects can be even more keenly felt. Spending longer periods at home during recovery is just one of the reasons cancer patients have increased energy needs. Coupled with the effects of the treatment itself this means that cold really is colder with cancer.
In a recent Macmillan survey, two thirds of cancer patients struggling financially said paying fuel bills is their biggest money worry. Cancer patients face higher bills at a time when their income has often decreased, but do not automatically qualify for help.
My girlfriend, Jane, has had to give up work as she is unable to continue due to her advancing cancer. Not only is her income greatly reduced but she now has to find additional money for her heating bills.
Nobody with cancer should be left in the cold because they can't afford to heat their home. Macmillan is urging the Government to extend the winter fuel payment to cancer patients. This annual payment is currently paid to everyone over 60, but could bring immediate help to cancer patients struggling with additional fuel costs. – Susan Quinn, Stroud.