After being diagnosed with Motor Neurone Disease (MND) five years ago, Kirk Gittens is using his experience to raise awareness, support others and take on a remarkable fundraising challenge for the MND Association. He shares how the Hidden Disabilities Sunflower helps him navigate everyday life and why he is preparing for a 160-foot bungee jump.
A life-changing diagnosis
Five years ago, Kirk Gittens received a life-changing diagnosis: Motor Neurone Disease (MND).
The diagnosis came after years of tests, uncertainty and hope that the symptoms he was experiencing might be caused by something else. As there is no single test for MND, doctors must rule out other conditions before reaching a diagnosis.
"When I finally received the diagnosis, it was overwhelming," Kirk explains. "Accepting what the future may hold has taken time."
Throughout his journey, Kirk has found strength in those closest to him.
"My wife, Ali, is my rock. She's my partner, my carer and my strength on the hardest days. My daughter, Summer, inspires me to keep going, and even our dog, Betsy Boo, never leaves my side. Their support makes this journey possible."
Kirk with his wife, Ali and daughter Summer.
Living with MND
Motor Neurone Disease (MND) can affect movement, communication and other aspects of daily life. The impact varies from person to person and can create barriers to participating in everyday activities.
For Kirk, the condition has affected many aspects of daily life.
"My walking, balance and speech have all changed. Even simple conversations can be frustrating when my voice isn't clear."
To help him communicate in the future, the MND Association is supporting Kirk with voice banking technology. This allows recordings of his voice to be digitally preserved and used through communication devices such as an iPad or iPhone, enabling him to continue communicating in a voice that sounds like his own.
How the Sunflower helps
Kirk is also supported by the Hidden Disabilities Sunflower.
He wears the Sunflower lanyard when visiting places such as supermarkets and other public spaces, helping others understand that he may need additional time, patience and support.
"People may not immediately recognise that I have a disability, but the Sunflower helps others understand that I may need a little more time, patience or support," says Kirk. "It's a small thing that makes a huge difference."
The Sunflower provides a simple way for people with non-visible disabilities to voluntarily share that they may need understanding, additional support or more time.
Taking on a new challenge
Despite the challenges he experiences, Kirk remains determined to raise awareness of MND and support others affected by it.
To do this, he is taking on an extraordinary challenge: a 160-foot bungee jump at Battersea Park in London.
"I'm doing this to push myself, raise awareness of MND, and help others feel less alone."
Join Kirk or support the cause
Date: 6 June
Time: 2:30pm
Location: Battersea Park, London
Chelsea Gate Car Park, Carriage Drive North, SW11 4NJ
Kirk welcomes support from anyone who would like to attend, donate or even take part in the jump themselves. A discounted participant rate of £82 is available.
For more information, contact Kirk at:
Email: kirk.gittens@yahoo.co.uk
To support Kirk's fundraising efforts for the MND Association, please visit:
JustGiving: https://www.justgiving.com/page/kirks123
Thank you to everyone supporting Kirk and helping to raise awareness of Motor Neurone Disease.