“Our little girls didn’t get the chance of life with India”

“When India was going through treatment, we were both out of work, as I was her full-time carer. Although we received PIP and carer’s allowance, it wasn’t enough to support us financially.  

“We were spending £100 a week in petrol to get India to treatment and to her dressing changes. We could claim some money back but it was only 27p a mile which didn’t cover what we were spending. 

“As fuel prices went up, we noticed how much more it was costing us in petrol. On top of that, India could only eat soft foods as her mouth was so sore from side effects. She needed new loose-fitting clothes because of a skin reaction and painful rash which doctors put her in an induced coma for. She couldn’t wear anything tight as it was too painful. 

“We live in a flat and missed a month or two in rent because we couldn’t afford to pay it. It was such a worry. Although the council knew our circumstances, they were threatening to kick us out and that’s where Jude, our Young Lives vs Cancer social worker, stepped in and helped us.

“The worst part has been the stress of everything we’ve been through. And our little girls didn’t get the chance of life with India. That’s the worst part of it. India couldn’t walk and we couldn’t go on family trips. That had a big impact on India.” 

Throughout India’s treatment and now, Jason and his family have been supported by their Young Lives vs Cancer social worker, Jude. 

“India received grants from Young Lives vs Cancer and from another charity which helped and gave us a washing machine, cooker and fridge freezer.  

“When India passed away, Young Lives vs Cancer gave us a grant which really helped us financially.  

“Two weeks ago, I was given a Crisis Grant from Young Lives vs Cancer too to help pay our rent which helped so much. The money came into my account and went straight back out on rent. 

“I am struggling enough as it is and I would have been in a lot worse place without the support of Jude. It’s taken a toll on me and now I’m seeing a mental health doctor.  

“We have support from our family, but they all work. You can’t expect them to take time off work and so there is not as much support out there as what people would think. My eldest daughter, Harper, is now in school full time but I still need to look after my younger daughter Willow during the day and so I’m unable to work with childcare. 

“To other bereaved families I would say take every day as it comes and pull through. If I didn’t have my girls I would be in a much worse place. I went from being with India as her partner and carer, 24 hours a day, seven days a week, 365 days a year, to nothing. We were together eight years, and got married, and have two children together.  

“India was a very bubbly person. She was a fighter and adventurous and she wanted to live life to the fullest for her girls and make memories.  

“Next week we have a week away in Tenby, just me and the girls. India wrote in her memory book about the same place, and it will be special to return.”