A man in Derbyshire, Alan Bromyard, is pleading for help after the NHS declined surgery to remove a five-stone lump from his stomach. The 48-year-old has been suffering from a large lymphedema that has significantly affected his daily life, causing him to be bedridden and unable to pursue his hobbies like farming and fishing. Despite a recent health scare with sepsis, the NHS deemed the surgery as “cosmetic” and denied funding for it. Mr. Bromyard expressed his distress, stating, “I need help, I’m heartbroken.”
The condition has taken a toll on Mr. Bromyard’s physical and mental well-being, leaving him unable to carry out simple tasks and restricting his movement. The huge lump of fluid hanging from his abdomen has not only impacted his activities but has also led to emotional distress. Despite his surgeon recommending the surgery as beneficial, the funding requests have been turned down twice by the Derby and Derbyshire Integrated Care Board.
After facing rejection for the second time in August, Mr. Bromyard’s healthcare team is preparing a third application for funding. The NHS board mentioned that some treatments may not be routinely available, and individual funding requests are considered for exceptional cases. A spokesperson stressed that decisions are based on evidence and follow established policies.
Mr. Bromyard’s struggle highlights the challenges individuals face in accessing necessary healthcare treatments, especially when deemed non-essential by healthcare providers. The emotional and physical toll of living with such a condition is evident, and the need for empathy and understanding in healthcare decision-making processes is crucial.