SUFFERERS of a rare condition dubbed the 'rag doll illness' got together in Lancashire to raise money and awareness.

Myasthenia Gravis (MG) is a neurological condition which affects everyday muscles, making the most simple of tasks difficult.

More than 40 branches of the MG Association organised different events all over the country highlight the condition and help sufferers, family and friends to understand the difficulties of living with MG.

There are more than 200 sufferers in Lancashire, but only 46 belong to the association.

The Lancashire branch of the MG association, based in Preston, organised collections to raise £133 last weekend for the association.

The condition is caused by the body's immune system attacking and damaging the nerve reception areas causing a breakdown in communication between nerve and muscle.

MG affects one person in 10,000 and victims may suffer from double vision, sensitivity to light, slurred speech and difficulty in walking and breathing.

There is no cure and sufferers are kept stable by using medication for long or short periods, or kept alive with the aid of a respirator.

MG sufferer Patricia Carter, of Euxton, Chorley, was forced to retire from her job as an outpatient nurse at Chorley hospital in 1991 when she was diagnosed.

Patricia, of Euxton, said: "The MG Association is also very helpful and supportive."

The MG Association believes there are many people who remain undiagnosed.

Patricia said: "It is difficult to diagnose and it is those people in Lancashire who we are trying to help because there is a lot of help available. The association helps sufferers to realise they are not neurotic and they can speak to counsellors which I have found valuable."

For more information contact Jean Ponter on 01253 734149 or the national freephone helpline on 0800 919 922.

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