Lib Dem Deputy Leader’s Shocking Health Revelation: Given Four Days to Live
At the Liberal Democrats conference in Brighton, Deputy Leader Daisy Cooper shared a shocking revelation about her health. She disclosed that her battle with Crohn’s disease once brought her to the brink of death, with doctors giving her just four days to live. This harrowing experience occurred 12 years ago when she was rushed to the hospital, weighing a mere seven stone.
Crohn’s disease is a chronic condition that causes inflammation in the digestive system. It is a lifelong illness with no cure, leading to symptoms such as diarrhoea, stomach aches, fatigue, and weight loss. Cooper emphasized the challenges of living with this hidden disability, describing it as a constant struggle that can impact one’s ability to work and function normally.
During her speech at the conference, Cooper revealed the severity of her condition, recounting how she was on the brink of death without major surgery. She vividly described her physical deterioration, including drastic weight loss, failing eyesight, plummeting heart rate, and bruised arms. She emphasized the importance of the NHS in saving her life and restoring her health, acknowledging the critical role of healthcare professionals in her recovery.
The news of potentially never being able to work again due to her illness hit Cooper hard, as she had always found purpose and meaning in her advocacy work. The prospect of losing her ability to fight for causes she believed in was devastating, leading her to a moment of despair where she felt like her world was falling apart.
Despite previously speaking about her struggles with Crohn’s disease in parliament and supporting related charities, Cooper chose to share the depth of her illness to raise awareness about the challenges faced by individuals living with chronic conditions. She highlighted the importance of the NHS in providing essential care and support to those in need, underscoring the liberal principle of healthcare being accessible to all based on need, not ability to pay.
As the Liberal Democrats focus on placing the NHS at the center of their agenda, Cooper’s personal story serves as a powerful reminder of the significance of quality healthcare services. The party’s commitment to defending the NHS as a fundamental institution reflects their belief in the values of equality and access to essential services for all individuals.
In conclusion, Cooper’s brave disclosure sheds light on the struggles faced by individuals living with chronic illnesses such as Crohn’s disease. Her journey of survival and resilience serves as a testament to the vital role of healthcare systems in saving lives and providing necessary support to those in need. As the Liberal Democrats continue to prioritize healthcare as a key issue, Cooper’s story serves as a poignant reminder of the importance of ensuring that healthcare remains a fundamental right for all individuals.