Simon Meeson

My son simon is nineteen this year, he has Cowden's Syndrome a complex genetic condition that as a young child caused him to have speech problems, he has associated dyslexia and dyspraxia which meant he had to work very much harder than his friends to do the normal childhood things like learning to ride a bike and swim or even kick and catch a ball, as well as struggling with school work. The syndrome also causes him to grow tumours, they could grow anywhere in his body. Most are of a benign type but there is a risk of something nasty, so he has to undergo regular checkups and tests. At the moment he has four different tumours in his feet and ankle which cause him great pain, he takes daily painkillers and often uses crutches to walk. But all this aside he is an amazing lad who is now studying hard at south bank university for an honours degree in drama and intends to teach. He has attended the hastings stage school for many years performing in their shows for many local people and helping raise money for many charities, he now helps out by teaching some of the younger pupils. He also works one day a week at our local hospital doing ward clerking or clerical work. When people first meet Simon they have no idea what he is dealing with on a day to day basis, this syndrome affects his whole body but it will never stop him from achieveing his goals. He is an inspiration to everyone who knows him, a six foot three gentle giant whom everybody loves.