On Tuesday 11th May we were given the devastating news that our mum had  Sporadic Creutzfeldt-Jakob Disease (SCJD). This is an incredibly rare neuro-degenerative illness, affecting less that one person in every million - you are more likely to be struck by lightening. Mum passed away peacefully on Thursday 20th May.

Up until a few weeks before her diagnosis mum was her usual self - full of life and making plans for holidays when restrictions finally allowed and looking forward to spending time with her grandchildren Lewie, Tess and Zoe. 

After complaining of feeling dizzy and quickly becoming quite confused (although still managing to keep us all very entertained!) mum was taken to hospital for tests on Easter Sunday. Symptoms similar to Alzheimers, Huntington's Disease and Motor Neurone Disease developed very quickly and she was put into an induced coma to allow more tests to be done. Fortunately mum was unconscious when we received her diagnosis and she never regained consciousness, therefore she never knew that she wouldn't be coming home. 

The rarity of CJD means that there are a lack of charities to raise awareness or fund research, and families are not able to access the support needed during such a difficult time. 

On Monday mum would be celebrating her 70th birthday. Although she wouldn't have wanted a big fuss made, she would definitely have been looking forward to celebrating with some nice food and cocktails with her family and friends - and possibly a late night dip in the sea!  We will never be able to enjoy a cocktail with her again but through donations we can help the CJD Network support other families. 

The CJD Support Network is the only UK charity providing emotional and practical support for all strains of CJD and for those who are at greater risk of CJD . The CJD Support Network was established in 1995 by relatives of people who have died with CJD and is now recognised as the leading charity for all forms of CJD, they receive no statutory funding and are totally reliant on public donations and fundraising. 

Thank you so much for your donation!

Karen, Lee & Pete