A former doctor, Andy Vaughton, who is currently living with Motor Neurone Disease, is gearing up to prove that it is possible to ‘live well’ despite the challenges posed by the illness. He aims to achieve this by participating in the Rob Burrow Leeds Marathon taking place this weekend. The 47-year-old Andy, a former consultant anaesthetist, received the devastating diagnosis of MND in 2021, causing his world to crumble. Despite the grim average life expectancy of just two to three years for MND patients, Andy is now in his fourth year and is determined not to let the disease define him.
Andy plans to run the marathon named after another MND sufferer, Rob Burrow, while also raising funds for the charity founded by Scotland rugby hero Doddie Weir, who also battled MND. Andy was an active sportsman outside of work, engaging in activities such as rugby, climbing, running, and skiing. The first signs of MND appeared as early as 2010 when he noticed muscle twitching, with symptoms escalating after a skiing accident in 2016. Despite undergoing surgery in 2020 for what he thought was nerve damage, Andy received the MND diagnosis the following year.
“This is about showing that it’s still possible to do something meaningful with the time you have,” Andy expressed. Reflecting on the gradual loss of arm function and the challenges he faces, he acknowledged the emotional impact of the diagnosis. His medical background enabled him to understand the gravity of the situation, leading to a moment of breakdown in his car after receiving the news. Andy, who resides in Poole in Dorset, attempted to return to work but ultimately focused on spending time with his wife Susie and their three sons.
Despite the obstacles, Andy continues to coach his sons’ rugby teams and finds solace in training for events like the marathon. He acknowledges the dual lives MND patients lead, mourning the loss of each function while striving to embrace the present. The support from Doddie Weir, who sadly passed away in 2022, has been instrumental in Andy’s journey. Doddie’s encouragement to live in the moment and maintain a positive outlook resonated deeply with Andy, motivating him to make the most of the time he has.
Andy’s wife Susie, a former GP turned full-time writer, highlights the couple’s acceptance of a different life path post-diagnosis. Despite the challenges, she admires Andy’s resilience and determination. As Andy gears up for the demanding marathon both physically and emotionally, Susie remains confident in his ability to persevere. Andy’s goal extends beyond raising awareness to funding crucial research for MND breakthroughs. He emphasizes the urgent need for effective treatments and hopes for progress not only for himself but for future patients facing the disease.
In an effort to support Andy’s marathon endeavor and contribute to the My Name’5 Doddie Foundation, donations can be made at justgiving.com/page/andy-vaughton-10. The foundation’s work can be further explored at www.myname5doddie.co.uk. Andy’s dedication to pushing boundaries and defying the limitations imposed by MND serves as a testament to the power of resilience and hope in the face of adversity.
