Woman, 70, Thought She Had a Minor Foot Issue. It Was Actually a Degenerative Neurological Disease and She Can No Longer Walk

**Norfolk Family Faces Motor Neuron Disease Challenge as Son Undertakes Epic Walk to Raise Awareness**

Lynne Gittins, a 70-year-old from Norfolk, England, has found herself battling the effects of motor neuron disease (MND) following what she initially believed to be a minor foot ailment. The diagnosis came as a shock not only to her but also to her family, which had attributed her issues to poor circulation.

According to her son, Tom Waterhouse, who is 40, the family had not predicted that Lynne’s foot problems were indicative of something far more serious. Initially, she used a walking stick to assist her mobility, but over time the condition progressed, leading to a diagnosis of MND, a group of progressive neurological disorders that wreak havoc on nerve cells responsible for voluntary muscle movement. As a result, Lynne has lost her ability to walk and now experiences significant difficulties with her arms and hands.

Motor neuron disease can manifest in various ways, with early signs including muscle twitching, weakness in the limbs, and stiffness. Lynne’s condition has deteriorated to the extent that activities such as speaking, eating, and breathing have become increasingly challenging for her. Despite these hardships, Lynne remains determined to spend quality time with her family. She is often seen enjoying outings, including trips to the beach, as a devoted grandmother to Tom’s two children.

Tom outlined the lengthy and sometimes frustrating journey his mother endured before receiving an accurate diagnosis. However, he expressed gratitude for the support provided by the local Motor Neuron Disease Association, commending the team for their kindness and professionalism. He noted that they treated his mother with both dignity and a touch of humour, which he deemed essential during such a trying time.

Lynne has praised the care she receives, highlighting that nurses come to her home, which significantly improves her quality of life compared to hospital visits. “They have become good friends,” she said, acknowledging the ongoing support offered to her husband, who she described as facing the toughest challenges daily.

In a heartfelt tribute to his mother’s resilience, Tom undertook a remarkable 100-mile non-stop walk across Norfolk, completing the feat in just 33 hours. This ambitious challenge served not only as a personal tribute but also as a means to raise awareness for MND. Tom reflected on the experience, admitting he had underestimated its difficulty and that he struggled physically, but his thoughts continually returned to his mother. “I kept thinking about her; she’s a real hero,” he shared.

To accompany his physical endeavour, Tom launched a GoFundMe page, which has raised over £7,700 for the My Name’5 Doddie Foundation, an organisation dedicated to funding research into MND. This foundation was founded by former Scottish rugby player Doddie Weir, who succumbed to the disease in 2022. On the fundraising page, Tom expressed admiration for his mother’s courage in facing MND and shared his desire to contribute towards combating the illness.

Paul Thompson, a representative from the My Name’5 Doddie Foundation, praised Tom for his dedication and the overwhelmingly positive response to his fundraising efforts. He remarked that the donations would significantly aid ongoing research into MND, stressing that narratives like Tom’s highlight the strength and resilience of the MND community. “To walk 100 miles non-stop is an extraordinary display of physical and mental endurance, but it is clear Tom was motivated by his deep love for his mother,” Thompson commented.

Thus, Lynne Gittins’ battle with motor neuron disease has not only altered her life but has ignited a spirit of determination within her family, leading to a significant fundraising effort aimed at eradicating this tragic condition. The poignant story of mother and son serves as both an inspiration and a rallying cry for action against MND, a condition that affects countless lives. As Lynne continues her fight with immense courage, her family stands resolute in their support, committed to raising awareness and making a difference in the lives of others facing similar challenges.