A CANCER survivor fears a severe allergic reaction she suffered was caused by the damp and mould in her council flat.
The Guardian yesterday reported on the plight of Miss Noel-Quaye, who has for 10 years put up with damp, mould and water leaks in her flat in Tenby Court, Walthamstow.
Now neighbour Patricia Corben says she has suffered similar problems, with water leaking down walls since November.
She has reported the problem to the council’s housing manager Ascham Homes, but despite an attempt to repair the leak five weeks ago the problem has returned.
Ms Corban is in remission after being diagnosed with ovarian cancer, cancer of the appendix and lymphoma.
The 55-year-old, who also has arthritis, was rushed to hospital just before new year after suffering an anaphylactic shock, or severe allergic reaction.
Although doctors were unable to link it with the damp and mould in her flat, she is due to undergo further allergy tests.
She said: “Nobody seems to be interested in my problems.
“I am not asking to be moved. I just want them to fix the problem because living here is unbearable.
“My flat is cold from the damp even though I am using halogen and electric heating.
“My bathroom is green and slimy.
“Everything in the flat is ruined and I cannot invite my children round."
An Ascham Homes spokeswoman said its contractors will visit the flat on Wednesday to fix the problem.
She said: "Pinpointing the exact location of a leak, especially with the layout of properties in mid-rise blocks such a Tenby Court, is always difficult and we apologise for the frustration and inconvenience experienced by Ms Corben.
"The properties at Tenby Court will be having internal works completed this year, which include rewiring, heating and kitchen and bathroom refurbishment where required.
"The total estimated cost for these works is £212,000 and will be completed by the end of March 2011."
Comments: Our rules
We want our comments to be a lively and valuable part of our community - a place where readers can debate and engage with the most important local issues. The ability to comment on our stories is a privilege, not a right, however, and that privilege may be withdrawn if it is abused or misused.
Please report any comments that break our rules.
Read the rules here