Huntington’s disease is caused by an inherited faulty gene that damages the brain over time. People with the disease can eventually lose the ability to walk, talk, eat, drink and care for themselves, requiring specialist support from those who understand the condition. The disease is genetic, meaning it is passed down from one generation to the next. It therefore impacts entire families over generations rather than individuals alone.

Around 800 people in Scotland are living with the symptoms of Huntington’s disease right now, people just like Mike.

Your fundraising support is helping families just like Mike who was 53 when he was diagnosed. The test result confirmed what he already suspected; symptoms were beginning to emerge, and Mike recognised the early signs all too well as both his late mother and his late sister had Huntington’s disease.

It meant giving up his job in the offshore oil industry and adjusting to the serious health changes that they both knew were ahead. Since then, Mike’s mobility and balance have deteriorated, and his speech is gradually becoming more affected. Mike and Jennifer are both supported by an HD Specialist.

"Mike just gets on with it, he’s a real inspiration to me and many other people because he’s a fighter through and through,” says Jennifer, his wife of 31 years. "We’re a real team and are together through thick and thin."

Our families know that Scottish Huntington’s Association is here for them, no matter what. Thank you for helping to make that possible.