DWP Claimant Turns to Public for £9,500 Breast Reduction Funding
A woman who receives Department for Work and Pensions benefits has launched a public crowdfunding appeal to finance a £9,500 breast reduction operation, following what she describes as years of debilitating chronic pain and insufficient NHS support.
Mary Rich has created a GoFundMe page in an effort to reach her substantial financial target, having raised approximately £800 so far through the platform. She explains that the procedure is medically necessary due to the severe physical and mental health impacts she has endured.
Chronic Pain and Limited Mobility
Mary, who wears a 34GG bra size, states that she has lived with persistent pain for over a decade. The excessive weight of her breasts has reportedly caused significant spinal, neck, and shoulder issues, alongside lasting posture problems that affect her daily life.
"For over a decade, I’ve lived with chronic pain caused by the weight of my breasts," Mary explained. "I’m small-framed, and the constant strain has left me with severe spine, neck, and shoulder pain."
She details that her mobility and functional capacity have gradually decreased, requiring her to lie flat for several hours each day to alleviate pressure. Simple activities like movement, standing, or sitting can exacerbate the pain, leading to extreme burning sensations and flare-ups that last for days.
Extensive Self-Management and NHS Disappointment
Prior to seeking private surgery, Mary pursued numerous treatments to manage her condition. Her efforts included:
- Physiotherapy and osteopathy sessions
- Specialist supportive bras
- Significant weight loss, reducing from a size 18 to a size 12
- Adopting a holistic lifestyle with a low-inflammatory diet, minimal dairy and gluten, gentle movement, and careful rest routines
Despite these comprehensive measures, her pain has reportedly worsened over time, becoming debilitating. After a nine-month engagement with the NHS, she expressed feeling "completely let down by the system," stating that the only options offered were opioid medication and further physiotherapy.
Financial Hardship and Work Limitations
The condition has rendered Mary unable to maintain consistent employment, leading her to claim approximately £1,300 per month in DWP benefits. She describes the unpredictable nature of her pain as making regular work impossible.
"I never know what level of pain I’ll wake up to, which has made it impossible to work consistently," she said. During severe flare-ups, her partner must provide complete care for her.
The total cost of £9,500 is required to cover the surgical procedure itself, along with necessary consultations, private MRI scans, and comprehensive aftercare.
A Reluctant Appeal for Support
Mary acknowledges that asking for financial help does not come easily to her. However, encouragement from friends has helped her recognise that seeking support is a valid reflection of her worth and need for relief.
"Asking for financial support doesn't come easily to me," she admitted, "but with kind words from my friends, they've helped me realise that receiving is a reflection of my worth and that I, too, deserve support, care and relief from suffering."
Her campaign highlights the intersection of chronic health conditions, the limitations of public healthcare provision for certain elective procedures, and the difficult choices facing individuals on benefits when faced with substantial medical costs.
