Gwen

My mum was diagnosed with MND in August this year (2009). She had been tripping and was finding it hard to walk, MND was our first thought as my grandpa died from the disease in 1993. My mum was always a very active person, cycling everywhere she went, she was also a catering manager so was always on her feet.

At first my mum didn't seem to be deteriorating quickly at all and the doctors said she would have a few years at least. Unfortunately one day on the way to a hospital appointment, mum broke her foot and was from then on unable to walk. Once the cast came off she had deteriorated to the stage when her legs would no longer respond. Other than this though my mum’s hands were the only other weakened thing.

Mum was unable to leave the house after this as we are two floors up and she wouldn't let anyone carry her down stairs. Social Services said they would move her to a care home but didn't get round to it in time, which meant the last three months of my mum's life were stuck inside.

My mum kept her spirits high throughout and everyone was amazed at how strong she was being, although we all knew this wasn't how she really felt. My mum was such a caring person though and didn't want anyone to worry. At the end of October 2009, she fell ill with a chest infection and she was taken to hospital where she then stayed. Her deterioration then quickened beyond explanation. Everyday something else was worse - her speech, her use of her limbs. She was helpless. She sadly lost her life on November 12 2009. Her brother had come down from Scotland but sadly he was two hours too late.

I wasn't there when she passed but the nurses have told me all she said was thank you over and over again and asked for her leg to be raised. My only regret is not spending more time with her when I had the chance. Mum was such a caring person and didn't deserve it, nobody does. I just hope one day soon a cure will be discovered.