Liam Jefferies, 34, from Essex, initially experienced a tingling feeling and mild weakness in his feet in May 2025. Previously fit and healthy, he brushed off the symptoms, but the weakness rapidly deteriorated, causing him to stumble. His friends laughed when he mentioned the tingling during a walk last summer.
Rapid Progression and Diagnosis
The tingling moved into his arms and hands, and his mobility declined quickly. Within months, he needed a stick, then a walking frame, then a wheelchair. He sought medical advice and underwent a 10-month struggle for answers. In March 2026, he was diagnosed with motor neurone disease (MND), a rare and life-shortening condition. There is no single test for MND; doctors eliminated other conditions first.
Treatment and Side Effects
His neurologist prescribed Riluzole to slow the disease, but Liam suffered severe side effects including extreme fatigue and increased weakness. His neurologist said the drug could extend lifespan by an average of three to six months. Liam paused medication briefly to regain energy before slowly reintroducing it.
Life with MND
Liam continues to work from home, describing his job as a great distraction. He joined a support group but is the youngest member by a considerable margin, and his condition has progressed faster than others. He has received help from the NHS and MND charities for equipment including a wheelchair.
Support from Loved Ones
His girlfriend Kate has been his rock, arranging a cruise through the Norwegian Fjords via Limitless Travel, which caters to wheelchair users. Friends launched a GoFundMe campaign that has raised £9,198 towards a £10,000 goal. Liam said he was blown away by the support and messages from people he hadn't spoken to in years.
