LEARNING to live with an incurable fatal disease has become a day-to-day reality for one mid Cheshire couple.

John and Audrey Fletcher, of Beeston Drive, Winsford, have discovered first hand the steps that must be taken when a loved one, family or friend is diagnosed with motor neurone disease.

Former computer bank manager John was diagnosed with the muscle weakening condition in 2003 and during the past two years has lost the ability to undertake the simple daily tasks that most of us take for granted.

The 75-year-old communicates by using Lightwriter, a device that aids those who affected by speech or physical disability. He said: "It is about two years since I was first diagnosed. The complaints probably started about 12 months before."

Wife Audrey added: "It started with him slurring. It sounded like he was drunk and then it went into a hoarseness in the throat.

"He went to the ear, nose and throat specialist and they were looking for throat cancer but they said no, it wasn't that.

"John used to do a lot of talking at trade union conferences and they thought it may have affected his vocal chords so he went to a speech therapist."

It soon became clear that John's speech was hindered by movement in his tongue and, following muscle reflex tests, an MRI scan and neurological examinations, he was diagnosed with MND in January 2003.

Audrey admits that it has been difficult to adjust to living with the condition. She said: "It took quite a while to know what was wrong as MND is very hard to diagnose.

"I was very upset to start with but I am learning to live with it. It was such a big thing at the time. We miss going out as he can't walk that far and we can't go for meals as John can no longer eat but we still have people around for dinner.

"John was fitter than any of our friends and very active before so our whole lives have changed. His speech was going gradually but it went completely about 12 months ago so now he cannot talk, except through the Lightwriter.

"He cannot eat either as he is unable to swallow. It started off being just a problem with lettuce but now he cannot even drink.

"Nutrients are given to him through a peg which pumps milkshakes with 2,100 calories a day into him. You can do this while you're asleep but John didn't want that as he wants to retain as normal a life as he can."

And John, who enjoys playing bowls and holidaying, is benefiting from new medical advances including injecting Botox into the affected glands.

He said: "I can't swallow my saliva which causes problems but the Botox helps - and it has cleared my wrinkles!"

John, who is originally from Malpas, said support has helped him cope with the condition.

He added: "When we first moved here I used to walk quite a way with the dog but now I struggle to walk across the road.

"It's not being able to eat and speak I find the worst. It has ruined my social life.

"It is frustrating for me, my family and friends but as it has come on gradually we have all learned to live with it although I get very emotional and cry easily whether through sorrow or joy.

"It is difficult to pass on advice to anyone else as one case is so different from another.

"My main comment would be to make the most of it, do not let it get you down and try to remember there is always someone worse off than you."

But some mid Cheshire MND patients cannot rely on the close support John enjoys and volunteer development coordinator Karen Hickmore, from the Motor Neurone Disease Association, hopes people may have time to spare to help those who are not so fortunate.

She said: "We are looking for sociable, caring people who are willing to become MNDA visitors.

They provide invaluable friendship, advice and support for people with MND and their families, whether it be on the phone, via email or face-to-face.

"It is a fatal illness that leaves people unable to use their muscles and facing a diagnosis can be frightening and isolating.

"Many people like Stephen Hawking also lose their speech and have to communicate using technological aids.

"The Cheshire MND Branch, which is entirely run by volunteers, raises money to help those affected and raises awareness about the disease in the area.

"The branch is also aiming to hold regular support meetings for people living with MND and their carers."

For information about the MNDA or becoming a visitor, email karen.hickmore@mndassociation

.org or call 0151 424 6952.

A national 24-hour MND advice line is available on 08457 626262. For details, visit www.mnd association.org.