I have launched this campaign in support of Halcyon Weber, with whom I shared a house this year in Corfield Court, Cambridge. We are both studying for a PhD at St John’s College, myself in Cognitive-Neuroscience and Halcyon in Roman Legal History.

Halcyon is a mature student who previously worked for many years as a human rights lawyer. She returned to academia after her medical condition, progressive MS, made it too difficult to continue in her line of work: as well as causing motoric deficits, the disease impacted on her ability to think and work quickly under stress. However, with the PhD she can take her own time and work to her full ability. She has published work and more articles are due. But her MS is progressing and her ability to study is now under threat too.

Stem cell transplantation however may be the answer. Although it has not been approved for progressive MS in the UK, there are clinics abroad that have shown promising levels of success in treating such patients. Halcyon is in contact with many people falling within this category whose progression has stopped or even improved, including problems with thinking. See her blog: http://bit.ly/2qrRW0e .

The evidence shows she has a realistic prospect of stopping the disease, at the very least, despite the UK’s position. The treatment is in its infancy, but she has to act fast given the relentless progression of the disease. However, the total cost is over £55,000 and although she's fundraised around £14000 herself, and contributed her savings of £10,000, a huge price tag remains.

Whenever I have spoken with Halcyon she has always been greatly encouraging of me and my studies, and is undoubtedly very supportive of other students in general. I believe Halcyon deserves this opportunity and it is the least I can do to help her meet her target.