Get all your news in one place.
100's of premium titles.
One app.
Start reading
The Guardian - UK
The Guardian - UK
Rosie Mullender

Did polluted water cause my incurable illness? A surfer’s story

Reuben Santer standing on the beach
‘You never think something bad is going to happen to you’: Reuben Santer believes he contracted an incurable disease after surfing Photograph: PR

Before contracting the incurable disease that would change his life, Reuben Santer was dedicated to surfing, chasing waves at beaches all around the UK.

“I moved to Exeter from the south-east in 2021 specifically for the surfing,” says Santer, 35. “I’d finish my teaching job then drive for up to 90 minutes to reach the perfect spot. Back then, I gave more thought to the surf than to sewage – I had no idea how big a risk I was taking.”

Sign up to read this article
Read news from 100's of titles, curated specifically for you.
Already a member? Sign in here
Related Stories
Top stories on inkl right now
One subscription that gives you access to news from hundreds of sites
Already a member? Sign in here
Our Picks
Fourteen days free
Download the app
One app. One membership.
100+ trusted global sources.