LAWRENCE Barrett says he once lifted a 20st woman while working in a hospital, but now struggles to lift a cup.
The self declared ‘boisterous, happy-go-lucky man’, who became a popular figure while sweeping the streets of Waltham Forest, is living with motor neurone disease (MND).
The rare condition is a progressive illness that damages the nervous system and leaves muscles wasted. There is no cure.
The majority of sufferers die within 14 months of diagnosis but the most famous sufferer, scientist Professor Stephen Hawking, has lived with the condition for 40 years.
Mr Barrett, of Clementina Road, Leyton, was going about his daily business four years ago when he suddenly collapsed.
"They say life begins at 40, but that's when everything hit me. I collapsed, and I didn't know what was wrong with me,” he said.
"I had an MRI scan and needles in my back to test the fluid and nerves. Last year the doctors said I had MND.”
He struggles to hold back the tears as he describes how his life has dramatically changed.
He is confined to a specially adapted chair and must drink through a straw.
The once active, independent man relies on his mother, the kindness of neighbours and carers who visit three times a day.
He said: "I was fit and healthy all my life.
"I could pick up a woman who was 20 stones no problem. Now I can't pick up a glass.
"I can't do the things that I used to take for granted.
"I was always running around before and was active. Now my neighbour's son comes around to help me lift my legs up the stairs.
"The condition makes you look like you are drunk, or like you have had a stroke.
"I look like I am going to fall down.
"Once I collapsed in the kitchen and it took four policemen to lift me up.
"The doctors said I have had it all my life, but it has just shown itself now.
“No one understands what I'm going through.
"But I want people to know what's wrong with me so they are aware of the condition.
Mr Barrett says he does not know how severe his condition will get but has been told to prepare for the worst.
"My muscles are disappearing because they are getting weaker and weaker,” he said.
"My mum comes around to help me twice a week but I don't want to be a burden on anyone.
"I have been told to sort out a will so my family and friends will know my wishes."
For more information about MND click here
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