AN AMPUTEE with advanced cancer has told how a charity’s grant has been a “lifeline” after he was left with just 3p in his bank. 

Trevor Grace, from Worthing, was diagnosed with advanced prostate cancer in December following a leg amputation after an accident in Thailand.

The 64-year-old was given a Macmillan grant to help him pay for essentials such as food and bills.

Trevor said: “I had about 3p left in my bank account when the hospital put me in touch with Steve, a welfare benefits officer for Macmillan Cancer Support who helped me apply for a Macmillan grant. They were all amazing!

“After having my leg amputated the cancer was an additional blow I did not expect, and I’ve now been told it’s spread to my bones. 

“The Macmillan grant gave me a lifeline to help me buy clothing and bedding."

Trevor has a small pension and had applied for Universal Credit and a Pip allowance, but found the waiting time too long. 

He said: “The grant has also helped me buy food and a second-hand electric wheelchair to get to the local supermarket – it cost just £50.

“I’ve paid my stamp all my life since starting work for the Post Office when I was just 15 but I feel like the system has now let me down.

“The £350 Macmillan grant arrived just when I needed it.”

Almost £200,000 in Macmillan grants has been given to 500 people in Sussex.

Research by the charity found that across the UK, 83 per cent of people diagnosed with cancer suffered a financial impact.

Higher energy bills are common due to needing to have heating on longer because of the side-effects of radiotherapy and chemotherapy.

With energy prices rising this spring, and further increases expected in October, this year could impact those who are already struggling.

Macmillan grants are a one-off, means tested payment of £350 to help with extra costs.

To find out more about Macmillan grants, including who can apply, call the Macmillan Support Line on 0808 808 00 00 or visit the website https://www.macmillan.org.uk