this is not a pleasant message to send when it
concerns a good friend and a particularly great friend of Scouting.
Eric Harrison has Motor Neurone Disease and since it was diagnosed seven
months ago after finding falling over far too easy he has gone from
being very fit and able to now being house bound, reliant upon a walking
frame, unable to talk legibly for more than a few minutes and slow to
get about around the house. His recent message is below. I and other ex
colleagues and friends of Eric visit when able, for short periods
arranged by either email to erich1711@aol.com or by phone (256013) during early evening. He is up for short visits by
any friend. If you know and love Eric for his passion, infectious
humour and that mischievous glint in his eyes, go sit with him, share
and chat before, all too soon, that glint becomes a memory,
thank you
very much
'Seven
months ago I was walking up to ten miles, visiting the gym daily and
kayaking. Now I can hardly walk, coordinate my movements and find
speaking difficult. I have been diagnosed with motor neurone disease.
Basically this means that cells that control voluntary movements,
including speaking, swallowing, arm and leg movements, have become
damaged. There is no cure and these movements will become worse until
complete disability. I have been given a conservative life expectancy of
two years but that depends on how soon my breathing becomes
affected. So next time you see me I may well be in a wheelchair and
speak as though I'm drunk. I can assure you that I won’t be, because one
of the most depressing aspects of this condition is that I can't
swallow alcohol, especially my favourite tipple, whiskey! Because of the
rapid onset and progression of these difficulties I will not be getting
out much or doing any first aid! Even the smallest period of
conversation tends to knacker me. I wish you all the best for the
future, make the most of every day. It was a pleasure serving with you
all. Good times
Regards, Eric Harrison’
