Introduction

In a remarkable turn of events, a nurse from Inverness unwittingly learned about her own battle with motor neurone disease (MND) while attending a lecture on the condition. Sheree Gregg, diagnosed at just 28, became one of the youngest individuals in Scotland to face this life-altering illness.

Symptoms and Diagnosis

Sheree, now 34, experienced alarming symptoms like weakness and tingling in her left arm while passionately playing guitar in her punk band. Initially facing a long and challenging journey to diagnosis, she was informed she had a “very slow, progressive” form of MND after 18 months of tests. “Around 2016 I started having symptoms and had begun some tests,” she shared during an interview on BBC Radio's Good Morning Scotland.

Music had been the cornerstone of Sheree’s life, particularly live performances that filled her with energy and joy. “My left hand was struggling to keep up with the music,” she recalled, expressing the heartbreak of having to step back from something that defined her. Even as she sat in front of the lecturer discussing MND symptoms, she remained in complete denial about her own condition, despite experiencing telltale signs that mirrored the medical descriptions. “It felt surreal...but I ignored it,” she said.

Understanding MND

MND is a devastating and progressive disease that affects motor neurons, leading to the decline of vital functions including movement and speech. Every day, six new cases are diagnosed in the UK, and most patients are given a life expectancy of only two to three years post-diagnosis. Currently, there is no cure for MND, a realization that hit Sheree hard as she grappled with the realities of her diagnosis.

Impact on Life

The impact on her life has been profound, cutting short her nursing career and dreams of homeownership and travel. “I was in complete denial for a long time,” she expressed, emphasizing the shock of being diagnosed at such a young age. But Sheree turned her focus towards education, graduating with an honors degree in nursing with distinction—the very field that would become a challenge for her to continue in.

Finding New Joy

Despite the setbacks, Sheree discovered new joy in horse riding, which she describes as a “real turning point.” She stated, “It's my happy place every week,” highlighting how it has helped her regain muscle strength and a sense of freedom she thought was lost forever. This resilience led her to complete a 10km race at the Loch Ness Marathon, honoring friends lost to MND and those who are still fighting the battle.

Support from the Community

Through a grant from the My Name'5 Doddie Foundation—founded by rugby legend Doddie Weir, who succumbed to MND in 2022—Sheree has received support enabling her to enjoy activities like gaming despite her condition. The charity, which is set to launch its annual Doddie Aid fundraiser, focuses on raising funds to support individuals living with MND and advancing research efforts. Since its inception in 2021, Doddie Aid has raised over £5 million, proving the power of community in the face of adversity.

A Message of Hope

Reflecting on her journey, Sheree offered a message of hope: “What Doddie's done with his platform has helped me and others. There isn’t much that can be done following an MND diagnosis right now, but that will change.” As the fight against MND continues, she encourages everyone to keep pushing for progress, hoping that their collective efforts will transform despair into hope for future generations.

Call to Action

Join the fight against MND, take part in fundraising events, and let’s make a difference together!