Former BBC Look North presenter Andrew Hartley, diagnosed with motor neurone disease (MND) late last year, has spoken of how "thrilled" he was to deliver a best man's speech at his brother's wedding. The 57-year-old from Newcastle was diagnosed in December after experiencing symptoms he initially thought were carpal tunnel syndrome.
Diagnosis and Challenges
Following tests at the Royal Victoria Infirmary, Hartley received the MND diagnosis. This progressive neurological disease affects communication between the nervous system and muscles, with no known cure. Hartley, who joined the BBC in 1989 and stepped back in March last year, feared his condition might prevent him from speaking at his brother's wedding.
A Triumphant Speech
Hartley had been best man at his own wedding to wife Dawn in 1992. He said: "My brother had been my best man when I married my wonderful wife Dawn in 1992, and when he asked me to do the same for him, I was very worried. Having been told at the time it was highly likely I had MND, and understanding how it can affect people, I wasn't sure I'd be able to do it. But I'm thrilled to say I did - and it was a triumph. It was an extremely emotional day for everyone, but it was wonderful."
Raising Awareness for Global MND Awareness Day
Hartley is speaking out to mark Global MND Awareness Day on June 21. The former BBC news correspondent added: "I remain positive and determined. I believe the progression of my MND is slow, and I will continue to crack on for as long as I can. I'm determined to do what I can to raise funds for the MND Association and awareness of MND."
Earlier this month, around 120 of his former BBC colleagues took part in a relay walk and run along Hadrian's Wall, raising over £30,000 for the MND Association. Hartley said: "Being part of this campaign and being able to share my story for Global MND Awareness Day is a huge honour."
Living with MND
Hartley shared details about his condition: "Since the diagnosis, the main battle has been mental rather than physical. The symptoms seemed quite minor and didn't affect my ability to exercise or any of my other hobbies. The symptoms have progressed a little, particularly in my hands, and I sometimes struggle with basic tasks like turning keys, stiff zips, lifting, and so on. The specialist physiotherapist has noticed some weakness in my quads and arms. But for the time being, I am still able to crack on with my life and still exercise every day - mainly cycling but also swimming and running, just a little more slowly."
The MND Association encourages those with the condition and their families to celebrate special days and the "moments that matter when living with MND." As part of this, Hartley's picture will appear on billboards around Manchester.
