Jason Bowen, the former Birmingham City player, has shared a devastating update on his battle with motor neurone disease. Bowen, 53, revealed that he is losing the use of his legs as the condition progresses.
Bowen’s Deteriorating Condition
Bowen says his condition is ‘gradually getting worse’. He was diagnosed with the degenerative illness five years ago.
“I’m losing the use of my legs and my right arm is getting a bit weaker. My voice… I can’t use my left arm at all,” Bowen told the BBC. “Some things are gradually getting worse. Walking. Eating.”
Diagnosis and Initial Treatment
Bowen first noticed symptoms including weakness in his hand and muscle twitching. He was diagnosed within weeks of first experiencing symptoms.
He initially managed to keep on top of the illness through rehabilitation. He has since been forced to stop due to fatigue. “I had to stop because I was finding it too tough. I was getting really tired,” he added.
Understanding Motor Neurone Disease
Motor neurone disease is a life-shortening condition that affects the brain and nerves. It causes muscle weakness that worsens over time.
There is currently no cure.
Bowen’s Football Career
Bowen represented Wales twice at senior level. He enjoyed a long career with Swansea, Blues, Southampton, Reading, Cardiff, Newport and Llanelli before retiring in 2013.
Bowen was one of the players signed by Barry Fry. He also featured under his successor Trevor Francis before leaving Blues for Reading in 1997.