Struggling trucker family: Fighting to survive within the bureaucratic system, aged 50

In a heart-wrenching tale of hardship, Nicolle and Robert Degner, a married couple from Uckermark, find themselves in a precarious financial situation.

Four years after Robert's battle with cancer, the couple is considered cured, but the aftermath of operations and rehabilitation has left Robert unfit for work. His pension, a meagre 183 euros a month, is barely enough to cover their expenses.

Robert's ordeal began in January 2021 when he returned home in pain following an operation. Doctors found that his appendix was inflamed, and during the procedure, a tumour on his colon was discovered. The tumour was cancerous.

Meanwhile, Nicolle, a 50-year-old early retiree and a trained geriatric nurse, has been dealing with her own health issues. She suspected a slipped disc and is currently battling problems with her discs.

The couple's financial struggles are compounded by the fact that they have been advised to separate to collect money from two communities of needs, but they refuse to do so.

Nicolle, who is also a trucker, has turned to the press due to her frustration with the treatment of sick people in the country. She is angry about the situation, stating that they have never been a burden to anyone and have worked hard for many decades.

The couple's meagre benefits have to cover their almost 600 euro rent, ancillary costs, food, and other expenses. To make matters worse, Robert is required to pay 50 euros of his pension to his 19-year-old daughter due to a "community of needs" arrangement.

This leaves Nicolle and Robert in a difficult position, with the decision-makers, according to Nicolle, not understanding the financial struggles of people like them. They are frustrated that they have to tell their children from a previous relationship that there's no money for big outings during their regular visits.

Nicolle is at the mercy of the authorities and has been told that they're sorry but cannot help. She is angry that they never run out of money by mid-month, while she and her husband are afraid of upcoming bills.

The couple's story serves as a stark reminder of the challenges faced by many sick and injured individuals in the country, and the need for more comprehensive support systems.