Gina Miller, diagnosed with aggressive breast cancer in September 2024, has detailed the substantial financial burden of her illness, estimating a total cost of approximately £70,000. This figure, she explained, encompasses lost earnings, additional work-related costs, and increased household expenses, despite receiving free treatment through the UK's National Health Service (NHS).
Miller, who was 58 at the time of her diagnosis, underwent extensive treatment over 18 months, including chemotherapy, radiotherapy, a double mastectomy, and surgery to remove her ovaries. The financial impact began to accrue almost immediately.
Lost Income and Business Costs
"I had no money coming in" while undergoing treatment, Miller stated. As a self-employed individual, her inability to work for an extended period resulted in an estimated £50,000 loss in earnings and associated business costs. She found it necessary to employ others to cover her workload, contributing significantly to this expense. Even two years post-treatment, Miller reports working only four days a week.
She noted that many cancer patients face a similar financial blow, with some having to rely on statutory sick pay, which is £123.25 per week or 80 percent of average weekly earnings, whichever is lower. After 28 weeks of ongoing treatment, this pay can cease, leaving individuals dependent on benefits.
Increased Household and Daily Expenses
Beyond lost income, Miller incurred approximately £20,000 in increased household bills. One significant factor was higher energy consumption due to chemotherapy making her feel colder, leading to a 30 percent rise in heating costs during winter.
Additional daily expenses also mounted. When she was too unwell to cook, the family relied on takeaways and grocery delivery services, doubling their usual spending on these items.
Specific medical-related costs also added up. Miller highlighted the expense of specialist skincare products, costing around £40 per bottle due to chemical sensitivities caused by treatment. She also noted increased costs for organic food, as advised by doctors, and hundreds of pounds spent on specialist nail care products after losing her fingernails and toenails. Dental treatment required due to cancer, not covered by the NHS, added several thousand pounds to her bills.
Wider Financial Impact on Families
Miller observed that cancer often disproportionately affects women financially, adding to existing economic disparities such as lower earnings and pension contributions, and career breaks for childcare. She described how the disease can dismantle family dynamics, requiring significant funds to maintain household stability.
Miller's older daughter, who has learning difficulties and requires care, also incurred additional therapy costs to cope with her fears during Miller's treatment.
According to Macmillan Cancer Support, the average monthly cost associated with a cancer diagnosis is £570. Miller met many women during treatment who identified financial pressure as their primary concern. Some were 'sandwich' carers, managing children and aging parents simultaneously, facing mounting costs for care homes and additional support.
Preparing for Financial Resilience
Miller stressed the importance of financial preparedness for potential health crises. She advocated for saving, building an emergency fund, and prioritizing financial resilience. Insurance was also mentioned as a key safeguard, though she cautioned that it might not cover all associated costs, underscoring the need for robust personal finances.
In response to her experiences, Miller relaunched her investment platform, MoneyShe, to help women gain financial control. She urged individuals to consider their financial preparedness for serious illness before it occurs, emphasizing that illness impacts more than just the body.