David’s Story

Making every moment matter

I’m David. Like many, I dreamed of a retirement full of adventures. After a long career in sales and technology, my wife Sonia and I planned a three-week trip to Canada to celebrate both my retirement and her 60th birthday. But in 2020, Covid postponed those dreams, and soon, an unexpected diagnosis would change everything.

Facing Motor Neurone Disease

In 2021, I began experiencing strange symptoms: weakness in my hands and a fluttering sensation in my shoulders. Concerned, I sought help, but long NHS waiting times meant I saw a private specialist. By May 2022, I’d reached my retirement date and, the next day, was diagnosed with Motor Neurone Disease (MND). The news was crushing, but I was determined not to let MND define every moment.

Finding Joy and Support at Keech

Five days after my diagnosis, we took our long-awaited trip to Canada. We adopted a “10-minute rule”, allowing ourselves a brief window each day to feel sad and then focusing on enjoying our time together. The memories we made are priceless.

Back home, MND quickly took a toll on my body. That’s when Keech came into our lives. Donna, our Keech Occupational Therapist, has been a godsend. She introduced us to aids like the Neater Eater, which has allowed me to keep my independence, and she’s always there, supporting us through every change.

Hydrotherapy with Charlotte has been incredibly soothing, and Nic’s exercise circuits have brought strength and laughter into my life. The team’s care isn’t just medical; it’s about making life as rich and fulfilling as possible.

Support for Sonia

Sonia has been my rock, but watching me fade is so hard on her. Keech supports her too, through counselling and therapies that lift her spirits and give her space to share her struggles. It means everything to know she’s cared for, just as I am.

We’ve been married 43 years, and this journey has made us stronger. Their care is tailored to our needs, helping us live fully, even in the face of uncertainty.