Shock MND diagnosis for former Express photographer Scott
A former Express chief photographer has expressed shock after being diagnosed with the same illness as rugby league star Rob Burrow.
Scott Merrylees began working at the Wakefield Express series back in 1989 as a 20-year-old straight from college. He was an integral part of the department, eventually leading a team of photographers across our West Yorkshire titles.
In 2018, he become a freelance photographer and qualified drone operator. He also lectured on photojournalism at two Sheffield universities.
But his life was turned upside down when doctors told him they believed he was suffering from motor neurone disease (MND) at the age of 57.
Scott told how after months of hospital tests, he and his wife Dawn walked into a room at Seacroft Hospital in Leeds and were told by a consultant: “I’m sorry Scott, but you have motor neurone disease“
He said: “We went home and we both cried, wondering how we could tell our kids Beth and Alex and the rest of the family.
“We contacted the Motor Neurone Disease Association, which gave us practical advice and a shoulder to cry on.”
Scott was told he might have to adapt his home as the disease progressed, and he now communicates through a typing system because he cannot speak.
But he said: “Inside I’m still the same sarcastic, dour Scotsman I’ve always been. MND rarely affects cognitive function.”
However, in April, question marks were raised as a specialist raised the possibility he may not have MND but another disease. More tests are being carried out.
Scott said: “Regardless of what outcome I face, I’d like to help support what MND champion Kevin Sinfield calls ‘the community’.
"Those living with MND daily - and the sometimes overwhelming struggles they face - their carers, families and friends.”
As a result, his 20-year-old son, Alex, a Hallam University student, is undertaking an arduous charity walk through the Peak District for the MNDA, accompanied by his uncle, Steve Tweedle, aged 59, from Sheffield.
The walk has a total ascent equivalent to climbing Ben Nevis and is to be completed in one day. It is called The Golden Miles, and represents 35 miles through 20 villages in the Peak District.
Starting at daybreak on Saturday, June 20, the pair will be walking for Scott and the MND Association, the day before Global MND Awareness Day.
Alex said: “Our dad is dealing with a diagnosis that he may never fully come to terms with.
"But, regardless of the outcome, we want to give back to the people who have made facing it more manageable.
“It’s been a scary and overwhelming journey, and we don’t have the answers yet, but we hope you can help us fund more life-changing care and — one day — come closer to providing a cure.”
Hundreds of people have already donated, and the fund currently stands at a £9,500.
You can donate by visiting https://www.justgiving.com/page/35milesformnda?utm_medium=FR&utm_source=CL