September 16th 2024.
During her speech at the Liberal Democrat conference in Brighton, Daisy Cooper, the party's deputy leader, opened up about her battle with Crohn's disease. She revealed that 12 years ago, the illness had left her weighing only seven stone and she was just four days away from death. It was a struggle for her to even make it to the hospital in time.
Cooper had never publicly spoken about the severity of her condition before, but on that stage at the Brighton Centre, she bravely shared her story. She described how doctors had warned her that she may never be able to work again, even after undergoing major surgery. However, she also shared that the NHS had ultimately saved her life and given her a second chance.
Crohn's disease is a chronic condition that causes inflammation in the digestive system. Unfortunately, there is no cure and those who suffer from it will have to manage it for the rest of their lives. Symptoms can range from diarrhoea and stomach cramps to fatigue and weight loss. Cooper, who has described it as a "hidden disability," has previously discussed the challenges of living with Crohn's while working in parliament.
As she lay in her hospital bed, Cooper was overcome with emotion. The thought of potentially losing her ability to work and make a difference in the world was devastating. As a passionate campaigner, her work had always been her purpose and to have that taken away was heart-wrenching.
Despite her struggles, Cooper has continued to be a strong advocate for those living with Crohn's and has supported charities such as Crohn's & Colitis UK. She chose to share her story not for sympathy, but to highlight the importance of the NHS and the incredible work it does.
At the conference, Cooper reminded her fellow Liberals that their support for the NHS should not be based on blind loyalty, but rather on the liberal idea that healthcare should be accessible to all, regardless of their ability to pay. This sentiment was echoed by party leader Sir Ed Davey in his speech the following day.
In conclusion, Daisy Cooper's powerful and personal speech shed light on the struggles of living with Crohn's disease and the vital role the NHS plays in saving lives. Her bravery and determination serve as a reminder of the resilience of the human spirit and the importance of standing up for what we believe in.
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