Medical Welfare
CASE STUDY: Dave Spalding

“Without the scheme I'd still be waiting for a diagnosis”

A fit and active Welbeck pitman since 1983 and UDM member since 1985, 43-year-old Dave Spalding's health took a nose dive in May this year.

Dave, a father of two from Warsop, was working the night shift as FSE driver, constantly clambering in and out of the tiny space, just as he had for the last 10 years, when he felt a sudden violent twinge in his back.

He says: “I couldn't move and had to be helped to the surface. Since then I've been in constant pain. At first I was told I'd pulled a muscle but physiotherapy and acupuncture didn't help and I'm now taking so many painkillers I rattle.

“The union arranged for me to see a consultant at the Park Hospital and to have an MRI scan, which showed that I have two bulging discs. Luckily I got my appointments through in just two days.

“I'm still having physio, I can't drive far and I'm not sleeping well. I might end up having to have an operation to trim the discs. But things could have been so much worse if I hadn't had the union's help.

“The pit wanted me back on haulage underground but Jeff, the welfare officer, advised me not to until I got a diagnosis. So I'm on light duties at the surface while I'm having treatment.

“I might end up having to have an operation to trim the discs and I'll have to think then about my future. But if it hadn't been for the medical welfare scheme, I'd still be waiting to see someone and who knows what extra damage could have been done.”

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