Gill's Story

When Gill was 4 years old, she developed a Ewing’s Sarcoma (a type of bone cancer) in her left leg. She was rushed into Black Notley hospital in Essex and the cancer was removed. Gill’s leg was fortunately saved, however after receiving radium treatment further complications developed. After numerous hospital visits throughout her childhood the result was that Gill’s left leg was severely shorter than her right leg, meaning she always had to have a 100mm raise on her shoe to enable her to function a near normal life.

As Gill got older she began to encounter new problems with her leg becoming arthritic and her ankle starting to twist more than it ever did before. This resulted in Gill having to use a leg splint designed to fit into her raised shoe, eventually Gill’s splint was upgraded to a raised splint that meant that although Gill’s shoe would still be raised this was not nearly as much as it was before. This splint was problem free and lasted for some years, but eventually  began rubbing as Gill’s leg altered with age.

Gill needed a new splint with a different design to take into consideration her changed mobility needs and she applied to the G&M Foundation to see if we could assist.  We were pleased to be able to provide the funding for Gill to get a new custom made, carbon fibre orthotic splint from The London Orthotic Consultancy.

After much to-ing and fro-ing, measuring and fitting Gill finally has what she describes as her ‘new leg’ and has said, “ I  am so grateful to the G&M foundation for funding my ‘new leg’.  When it became apparent that I needed a new splint I was filled with dread about the whole process I would have to go through to receive one. However after contacting The G&M Foundation and finding out they could help me, it made the process a lot more appealing. I can’t begin to thank them enough for all their help and especially to Gillian for all the help and encouragement she has given me.”

The General & Medical Foundation aims to help people who have been affected by medical conditions or disabilities by providing financial support for their medical needs and equipment to help aid lives.

We are welcoming applications from individuals who want to apply for a grant* to help them acquire equipment or treatment that would aid them in their daily activities. If you know of a friend or family member who would benefit from this grant please ask them to contact us at enquiries@thegmfoundation.org or please click here to apply online.

*All applications for grants are subject to eligibility.