Little Lucy’s big battle with multiple sclerosis

May 31 2009 by Alastair Craig, Sunday Sun

“Hearing the diagnosis was like being in a car accident,” said Sharon, 39.

“We already had a good idea of what was wrong with Lucy, but having it confirmed was horrific.

“It was her birthday party and Lucy lay down on the kitchen floor exhausted, but then couldn’t get up.

“When she began vomiting, I put her to bed hoping it was a tummy bug. But two days later, Lucy started dragging her left leg, just as her father had done before he was diagnosed.

“I felt sick. This time her neurologist confirmed MS. We were inconsolable. It just seemed so cruel.

“She is such a brave girl, she never complains.”

When the diagnosis was confirmed, Stuart was distraught and blamed himself.

During her bad days, Lucy suffers from slurred speech and blurred sight, and has to use a buggy when she goes on trips out.

In between she is like any normal child, apart from tiring easily and occasionally dragging her left leg.

There is little research into children’s MS, and no way of knowing what the future holds for Lucy.

However, experts believe she will experience significant neurological deterioration before her 21st birthday.

Stuart, 40, said: “I know it isn’t my fault. But that hasn’t stopped the guilt. I am the one who has passed this disease on to our beautiful little girl.”

Sharon is trying to stay positive and has given permission for Lucy to star in a national advertising campaign for the MS Society aimed at raising awareness of the condition in children.

“Who knows what the future may hold,” said housewife Sharon.

“There could easily be a new drug or even a cure for MS.

“We have been unlucky. But we are a strong and loving family. We have a lot to be thankful for.”

The North East has already had its share of heartbreaking stories on childhood MS.

In 2007, Gateshead teenager Patsy Peebles was told she had the condition at the age of 14.

She has gone on to be an award-winning campaigner in raising the profile of teenagers battling with the disease.

:: To make a donation to the Sunderland branch of the MS Society, call Tony Watson on 0191-549 8232 or email tony_watsonUK@yahoo.co.uk