Jordan Brook, a 31-year-old star of The Only Way Is Essex, has been left unable to walk after being diagnosed with viral meningitis and encephalitis. The reality TV personality has been hospitalised for two weeks and is receiving round-the-clock care for the rare combination of brain conditions.
In a social media post from his wheelchair, alongside his pregnant girlfriend Sophie Kasaei, Brook wrote: 'Lord, give me strength. Get me home to my Boy. Still not got the strength to walk and am super weak all over my entire body.' He added that there is 'still a long way to go in this battle'.
Brook detailed his treatment, including CT scans, MRI scans, lumbar punctures, IV drips, antiviral medication, pain management, physio, and seizure monitoring. He noted that the swelling on his brain is worsening, making even simple daily activities difficult.
Despite the severity, Brook remains focused on recovery and his family. He said: 'My focus right now is simple. I need to get healthy. My Soph has been amazing, and she’s growing my precious baby boy. I just want to be a young, healthy dad… that’s the goal. This won’t beat me. I will get out of this.'
Sophie Kasaei, who is seven months pregnant, described the ordeal as a 'living nightmare' and the 'worst month of our lives'. She said witnessing seizures has been scary, but added that Brook is in safe hands and that their baby keeps him going.
