A quick summary:
March is Brain Cancer Awareness Month - a time to shed light on the impact of brain cancer and raise awareness about its challenges. For many, this month brings attention to a serious and often life-changing diagnosis, but for Heka's Founder and CEO, Alex Hind, it also serves as a reminder of just how vital support is, especially during health crises.
Alex’s journey to understanding the importance of comprehensive support began in an unexpected way: with a leaky nipple.
The importance of quick action
This simple yet alarming discovery led Alex to a path of uncertainty and anxiety. While the first logical step would be to visit his GP, it was 2020 and the pandemic had caused significant delays in accessing NHS services. Getting an appointment wasn’t going to be as quick as Alex hoped. But, thankfully, Alex had access to a solution that made all the difference.
Through Heka, Alex accessed a Virtual GP service and saw a doctor the same day. After an urgent blood test revealed a significant increase in his prolactin hormone levels, Alex was referred for an MRI scan - with a wait time of 8 to 12 weeks. For anyone, waiting months for an MRI that could reveal a potentially life-threatening condition would be a major cause of anxiety. Alex turned to Heka once more and accessed an MRI the very next day, where he was diagnosed with a benign brain tumour.
Comprehensive support for everyone
Fortunately, Alex didn’t have to face his health journey alone.The physical and mental toll of his condition - combined with the side effects of medication that disrupted his sleep - made things even more difficult. But once again, Heka came through.
“I was on some pretty strong medication that made me both super tired and super awake, so sleep became almost impossible. Heka helped me find sleep and relaxation support, which was exactly what I needed at that time,” Alex says.
With the right support, Alex gradually began to feel like himself again. Inspired by his recovery, he applied for a charity place in the London Marathon to raise funds for Brain Research UK, an organisation that had been aware of his condition. He even used Heka partners to help train for the marathon.
Employee wellbeing is a journey, not a one-size-fits-all solution
For Alex, this experience underscored an important lesson about employee wellbeing. “It made me realise that everyone’s situation is totally different. No one’s health journey is the same. What I needed support for a year ago is different from what I needed six months ago - and today, it’s different again.”
That’s why Heka is committed to offering health and wellbeing support that evolves with the changing needs of employees. “When we think about improving sleep, great nutrition, or going to the gym, all of those are great wellbeing practices, but none of them take into account the unpredictability of life and the challenges that may arise. That’s why it’s so important for Heka to provide support for both everyday needs and the unexpected moments when employees truly need help.”
Brain cancer awareness month
As we reflect on Brain Cancer Awareness Month, Alex’s journey serves as a powerful reminder of the critical role health and wellbeing support play in times of crisis. For employees managing their health, having the right support in place - whether it’s access to virtual healthcare, mental health resources, or physical therapies - can make all the difference.
At Heka, we’re proud to offer a platform that enables individuals to take control of their wellbeing, no matter the situation. Whether it’s for managing chronic conditions, handling a potential health crisis, or simply maintaining balance in everyday life, Heka is there to provide the support needed to help people thrive.
As Alex’s experience shows, wellbeing support is not just about offering generic services - it’s about offering solutions that meet employees where they are and help them navigate both the expected and the unexpected moments in life.
Let’s use this month to raise awareness about brain cancer, but also to recognise the power of proactive support systems, both in and out of the workplace, and their ability to change lives for the better.
Get in touch to level up your wellbeing strategy and provide your employees with proactive support.
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