A Glasgow pensioner has opened up on his struggles with Motor Neurone Disease (MND) after being diagnosed with the life-changing condition 26 years ago.
Tommy sought help after experiencing slurred speech and difficulties walking which prompted a referral to a specialist, and multiple tests, before the 80-year-old received his diagnosis in 1997.
The rare condition affects the brain and nerves, eventually leading to death, with symptoms including muscle weakness, twitches, slurred speech and difficulty swallowing.
The average life expectancy of someone diagnosed with MND is just 18 months from diagnosis but Tommy has a slow-progressing variation of the disease and people diagnosed with the latter can generally live a normal lifespan.
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Despite this, Tommy, who now uses a wheelchair, knows all too well the hardships of the condition, which has left him unable to use his left hand.
At the time of diagnosis, he was warned he might only have three to four years before his health declined. He later had a feeding tube inserted directly through his stomach wall - known as a Percutaneous Endoscopic Gastrostomy (PEG) - as he struggled eating and swallowing.
He said: "I've lost my speech and can't swallow solids anymore. I rely on a Peg feed overnight and can only sip drinks.
"My left hand is no longer functional, and I experience pain in my left shoulder. Using an electric wheelchair and scooter has become essential for getting around.
"Although my MND is stable, infections or colds take longer to clear up. I face difficulties with excess saliva build up, but Botox injections to my saliva glands provide some relief."
Recently, Tommy faced new challenges when a rare accident occurred during a botox treatment for his left shoulder when the needle made painful contact with the bone, causing damage to two discs in his spine.
After receiving care from district nurses, he found it difficult to sleep and required regular injections to help him rest. Ultimately, due to the need for assistance and support, Tommy made the decision to move to a care home, where he has now been for over two years.
He added: "It’s an interesting experience being in a care home, having to adjust to other people’s illnesses and whatnot, but health-wise, I just do what I can to stay as fit and positive as possible.”
