Warning: This article discusses topics of death and terminal illness which may be distressing to some readers.
A man diagnosed with what has been described as the ‘worst disease possible’ shared how a symptom led to him being ridiculed by a medical receptionist.
David Scott, aged 60, had a robust health history before receiving a shocking diagnosis. He was engaged in construction work and enjoyed playing football and golf regularly.
In June 2023, David, known as Davy, sought medical advice after a friend noticed his speech was slightly slurred, raising concerns of a minor stroke.
However, when Davy, who resides in Leicestershire, UK, reached out, he alleges that the receptionist dismissed his concern and even accused him of being ‘drunk’.
Eventually, in November 2023, Davy managed to secure a private appointment with a heart specialist.
“After some tests she did with me at the time of my appointment, she confirmed that there was something wrong and that I needed to see a neurologist ASAP,” he said.
“I said that I had tried to explain this without success and was accused of drinking.”
The tests revealed that Davy was afflicted with Motor Neurone Disease, a progressive and incurable condition often described by patients as the ‘worst disease possible’.
Davy recounted the moment he learned about his condition.
“Luckily, my wife Claire was with me at the time when I was told. You could have blown me down with a feather,” he said.
“I knew it was a terminal illness and there was no cure or treatment, so I asked the question, ‘How long do I have to live?’, and I was told between two to four years.”
He expressed: “Your body is dying day by day, bit by bit, and you have no control over what direction it takes.
“There are days and nights where I cry and ask, ‘Why me, but why not me?’, but there are no answers.
“There are times when you wish you were not here and not causing the pain and suffering that your family and friends are going through because of my illness.”
Currently, Davy is dedicating the remaining time to raising awareness about the condition, declaring he refuses to ‘just sit and wait.’
He is also committed to fundraising efforts to support research into a potential cure for the disease.
“It’s not down to one person, it’s down to all of us working together as a team,” he said.
“Together we can and we will make a difference.”