Lottery winner hit by train after struggling to deal with win

A lottery winner who walked away with £500,000 twelve years ago has died after struggling to cope with her win.

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by Ellie Hooper |
Published on

Helen Ford, 54, walked onto a railway track near her home in Penarth, Wales, after struggling to manage her new finances.

At the inquest into her death, Psychiatrist Doctor Martyn Davies told the court that Ford took overdoses as a ‘cry for help’ but would quickly recover, returning to her ‘normal happy and smiling self.’

Helen said the extra money didn't make her happy
Helen said the extra money didn't make her happy

Cardiff Coroner’s Court heard how Ford suffered from bipolar personality disorder, and suffered with ‘loneliness and despair.’

However, despite the evidence revealing Helen did walk onto the train tracks before her death, ‘her intentions at the time were not clear’ said the assistant coroner, meaning the verdict of suicide could not be reached.

‘I am not satisfied there is enough evidence to return a verdict that Helen Ford took her own life.’

The former ballet dancer had previously advised others to be thankful for their ‘health and happiness’ over wealth, using the age old lesson that money can’t buy either for you.

‘The lottery helps as it’s given me financial security and the opportunity to explore other avenues, like holidays that I wouldn’t normally afford.’

‘But it doesn’t buy health or solve problems. People who think if they win £30m it wouldn’t have me better. Money isn’t what’s important in life and people should remember that.’

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