Rugby star Ed Slater has been diagnosed with motor neurone disease at the age of just 33, ending his playing career.
The young athlete played for the England Saxons international team before his diagnosis, which has led to an outpouring of support from the rugby community.
His current team, Gloucester, say they are grateful for the support already provided by the My Name’5 Doddie Foundation, which was set up by former Scottish international Doddie Weir, who revealed he was suffering from motor neurone disease in 2017.
Following the upsetting news, some may want to know what the effects of the condition are, and ways to spot motor neurone disease, so here are some key facts and symptoms.
What is motor neurone disease?
Motor neurone disease is a rare condition that continuously damages the nervous system.
It is also known as amyotrophic lateral sclerosis (ALS) and occurs when specialist nerve cells in the brain stop working properly.
It is still not clear what causes the condition but those who have a family history of motor neuron disease or a related condition called frontotemporal dementia may be at a slightly higher risk.
The symptoms are progressive, making it increasingly difficult to grip, walk, speak, swallow and breathe - with some of these things eventually becoming impossible without assistance.
Symptoms of motor neurone disease
Common early symptoms, according to Scotland's NHS Inform, include:
- a weakened grip, which can cause difficulty picking up or holding objects
- weakness at the shoulder that makes lifting the arm difficult
- a "foot drop" caused by weak ankle muscles
- dragging of the leg
- slurred speech (dysarthria)
The condition is rare and will only affect around two in every 100,000 people in the UK each year.
It can affect people of all ages, but is usually diagnosed in people over 40, with slightly more men being affected than women.
Treating the condition
There is no known cure for the condition, but it can be treated with things such as a breathing mask and a feeding tube.
These treatments may improve the quality of life for someone who is suffering with motor neurone disease.
Charity organisation MND Association said: "MND is a complex disease that requires a wide range of support from a variety of health and social care professionals. There is a lot to think about, which may feel overwhelming."
The organisation provides guides for those who have been recently diagnosed as well as those who will be caring for a loved one who has developed the condition.
You can support Ed Slater and his family by donating to a JustGiving page that has been set up by Gloucester Rugby club.
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