‘I’M THANKFUL TO ALL RALLYING AROUND ME’

Community raising cash to send mum for cancer treatment

WHEN former hairdresser Tina Locke experienced severe anxiety and stomach pains she said she was given antidepressants by her GP and sent home.

After spending two years “begging” for tests she was finally referred for an endoscopy, which confirmed she had a rare form of stomach cancer, adenocarcinoma, and just “weeks” to live.

Now her community has united to get the 43-year-old, right, vital and potentially lifesaving treatment before it’s too late.

“It’s been horrendous for me and my family. I’m in a living nightmare,” said the Rhondda resident.

“There’s always room for human error – but this is neglect.

“To watch the pain on my loved ones’ faces is the worst type of pain a mother can bear.”

Within days of the devastating news reaching her community, thou- sands of pounds were raised in a bid to send Tina to Germany for immunotherapy treatment which could cost as much as £300,000.

Countless charity events have taken place in her honour – from auctions to cake sales.

Red bows are being sold in their hundreds to people in Rhondda Cynon Taf and further afield.

The total is now reaching £20,000 – but it’s still some way off the target.

“I am just so thankful to all people rallying around for me,” said Penygraig resident Tina, whose cancer has now spread to her abdominal lining and surrounding lymph nodes.

“I believe it is helping my children as well, knowing there are people out there who care.

“I’m absolutely overwhelmed by ordinary people taking time out to help organise events. Although I can’t thank everyone personally, I’m forever indebted to you.”

People took to Tina’s fundraising page on Facebook to voice their concern for the mum of two.

Friend Gail Lewis said: “The fundraising effort has been phenomenal.

“The Rhondda Valleys and surrounding areas have all given so generously.

“Her misdiagnosis is a travesty. If only she had been listened to and taken seriously.

“Tina presented herself to the GP and A&E on several occasions but she looked ‘well’ so no tests were initiated. But she had a silent tumour growing.”

Helen Jane Morgan said: “Tina’s story is about a dignified lady who was so polite that she accepted what doctors told her. Never one to kick up a fuss, she always paints a smile on her face even when she’s felt too ill. She’s the heart of her family, always thinking of others, hers, nursing her terminally-ill stepdadepdad while suffering herself.

“The community y has come together without being asked because everyone loves Tina and the family. I prayray that we can get the money in time to save this lovely familyly woman.

“In all honesty, we e shouldn’t have to. The NHS shouldould admit that mistakes have been made and save this beautiful tiful lady’s life.”

A spokeswoman for Cwm Taf health board said:d: “We are unable to comment ent on any individual patient.”

“However we are e aware of this case and an investigationation is under way.”

To donate go to www.justgiving.com/m/ crowdfunding/ / sarah-lewisjones