Kurtis was a fit and healthy teenager with a great future in front of him. He was at University, working part time and playing football. In April 2021 his life changed as he was diagnosed with Gluten Ataxia. After having no symptoms of Coeliac disease he suddenly had symptoms as if he had had a stroke. Slurring his words, trouble with his balance and motor skills. After numerous hospital appointments, blood tests, CT scans, PET scans, lumber punctures he was finally diagnosed with this debilitating disease.

Initially we were told by Professor Marios Hadjivassiliou at Royal Hallamshire Hospital in Sheffield that as soon as Kurtis was on a totally gluten free diet he should get back to how he was. Unfortunately we have now found out that this is not the case. His gut has been so badly damaged by gluten causing antibodies that have affected the cerebral part of his brain. After an appointment in April this year we were told the devastating news that Kurtis will not get better.

He cannot walk properly, unaided. His speech and memory have both been affected. He has had to stop work and has lost a lot of his social life. He is still able to continue at University and has the help from Student Disability Services.

We now want to raise money to help with his future. Private speech therapy appointments are very expensive and we want Kurtis to be able to access any other medical help he can get, whatever that may be.

My Managing Director, Keith Sadler and 7 other colleagues are taking part in the Tough Mudder North 2023 on 10th September 2023. All proceeds from this will be paid directly to Kurtis to help with his rehabilitation and future care. An amazing gesture from these men who, let's face it are not the fittest or fastest guys on the planet!