Where do I begin?

Our world came crashing down in an instant when we discovered that our little boy would need lifelong treatment. But this isn’t about me, my wife, or even our family. It’s about anyone whose world is turned upside down without warning. In our case, it’s all about our beautiful boy, Jude.

Our angel. Our hero.

We couldn’t love him more.

After a painstaking, yet thankfully swift diagnosis, we learned that Jude has Addison’s disease. There is no cure, only lifelong management.

Addison’s disease is incredibly rare and often presents with subtle symptoms, making it difficult to recognise. Jude became critically unwell and was admitted to the High Dependency Unit at Victoria Hospital, where he suffered an adrenal crisis. Thanks to the incredible skill, care and dedication of the doctors, consultants, nurses and the entire NHS Fife team, he was stabilised and is now home with us.

Just over a week ago, we had never even heard of Addison’s disease. Today, it has become part of our everyday life. It doesn’t define Jude, but it will always be something he has to live with. As his family, we will do everything we can to make sure he has the happiest, fullest and most normal life possible.

Tonight, we attended emergency adrenal crisis training, learning the lifesaving treatment that our family may need to give at any moment for the rest of Jude’s life. It was overwhelming, heartbreaking and empowering all at once.

There are simply not enough words to thank the incredible team at Victoria Hospital and NHS Fife. Without their expertise and compassion, our little boy may not be here today. We will be forever grateful.

To support research into this rare condition and help raise awareness, I’ll be taking in East Lothian half marathon. It’s only 13.1 miles, but it marks the beginning of a lifelong commitment to doing whatever I can for Jude and for every family affected by Addison’s disease.

We are devastated by what has happened, but we are also filled with hope. Hope because of the amazing healthcare professionals who saved our son. Hope because of the research that continues to improve lives and raise awareness. Hope because Jude is the strongest little boy we know.

If you are able to support this cause, no matter how small the donation, we would be truly grateful. Every contribution helps raise awareness and fund research that could change lives.

Most of all, thank you for keeping Jude in your thoughts.

We love you more than words can ever say, Jude.

You are, and always will be, our hero. ❤️

The Addison’s Disease Self-Help Group (ADSHG) is the UK charity supporting everyone affected by adrenal insufficiency, including Addison’s disease.

Everything they do is driven by a bold vision:

"A world where Addison’s disease and adrenal insufficiency are recognised early and managed effectively so that anyone affected can live confidently and thrive."

With your help, they’re working to make that vision a reality. Every penny and pound you raise can make a big difference to this small charity!