ACVO has launched a challenging story of a cancer patient’s descent into poverty and local charity support as part of its series of stories highlighting the challenges local Aberdonians go through.

The #10Aberdeenstories project gives citizens an opportunity to get involved in helping fellow Aberdonians through a challenge in their lives, to share their experiences and have their voices heard.

The second story, provided by CFINE, follows “Steven” (real name unavailable) who came to relay on food banks after undergoing a battle with cancer.

Steven says “I went back to my job but was made redundant due to closure of the company. I was unable to get a new job with my current health and disability. This forces me to start claiming benefits in the form of incapacity benefits and disability allowance. My whole life had to adjust to those changes. In June it was found that I had a brain infection and had to undergo three surgeries.”

“Now I relay on food banks as I struggle to maintain my flat and car, which is essential to get to my doctors/nurse appointments.”

Steven credits the help provided by CFINE with have changed his life for the better. They provided Steven with not only the food he needed to survive but also help with budgeting and moral support.

Ten stories will be published over 10 months on the ACVO website chronicling the experiences of a real Aberdeen citizen. Details of the help given by various agencies, and the help still required, will not only provide a resource for people experiencing the same issues, but will enable citizens and agencies to offer further assistance.

The first story detailed Bob Walker’s experiences of caring for his wife Diane through early onset dementia.

Please visit 10aberdeenstories.org.uk to read Steven and Bob’s story or find out more about the programme.

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