Support when life takes a difficult turn

Esben Hauge Olesen has been with Gåsdal Bygningsindustri A/S, Denmark, since 2006, starting as a production employee and later training as an automation technician. Since 2017, he works as an automation programmer at the Technology Centre in Skjern, Denmark. 

In spring 2023, he experienced sudden stomach pain that worsened over weeks, leading to difficulty eating. He explains: 

‘After multiple doctor visits and a hospital stay, I was diagnosed with Crohn’s disease, which caused severe constipation. Despite attempts to manage it medically, I underwent surgery to remove the affected intestine. I lost nearly 30 kg during this ordeal and faced several re-hospitalisations.’ 

He continues: ‘Throughout my recovery, my manager and colleagues provided immense support. The Employee Foundation’s assistance made me feel valued by the whole company, alleviating my concerns about leaving my team. My manager facilitated the application process, making it seamless.’ 

By February this year, he was fully recovered and has since returned to work, feeling well and adapting to his condition. The support from his workplace has been invaluable during this challenging time. 

László Tóth, married to Mónika Benke-Tóth of VELUX Magyarország LKR Kft., Hungary, experienced a sudden heart attack. The cause is unknown and he underwent a pacemaker implantation. After 53 days in the hospital, he had a rehabilitation stay in a sanatorium and is well on the way to recovery. 

Family support, especially from László’s adult daughters, has been crucial, along with help from the workplace, colleagues and friends. 

His illness had a huge impact on the family’s two youngest daughters, but fortunately Mónika had the strength to provide care and manage the situation, although being there during László’s treatment was an extra burden. 

Mónika is optimistic and appreciates that her husband can gradually participate in family events. ‘I am deeply grateful for the Employee Foundation’s financial support, which contributed to the continued rehabilitation of László and a happy time for the children.’  

Bartosz Friedrich is an employee at NB Polska, Poland, and a devoted father of three children. During a routine visit to an optician for one of Bartosz’s daughters, the optician suggested checking the sight of his other children, a chance event that led to five-year-old Filip’s sight defect being discovered. The examination started with the right eye – 100% healthy, but examination of the left eye revealed only 20% function, due to a genetic defect. 

With the help of glasses, Filip’s eyesight improved to 50% and he now enjoys playing with LEGO®, doing puzzles and drawing. He willingly puts the glasses on by himself, which underlines the impact they have on his life and well-being. Filip needs an eye operation in the future.