According to a story from MSN, Joe McCauley was diagnosed with Leigh syndrome, a rare disease, last year. Now 30 years old, he was fortunate to survive a bout of seizures and stroke-like symptoms that put him in the hospital in 2019. Many people born with the disorder don’t even survive to adulthood. Hoping to advocate for the disabled and chronically ill, Joe is running for councillor in the Linn by-election, representing the Scottish Liberal Democrats.
About Leigh Syndrome
Leigh syndrome is a type of neurometabolic disease that impacts the central nervous system. Levels of thiamine triphosphate or often abnormally low or absent altogether. Mutations of the mitochondrial and nuclear DNA have been implicated in the syndrome, and there are a number of different variants that have been linked to different genetic abnormalities. Symptoms often appear after a triggering event like surgery or an infection which places strain on the child’s body. Symptoms include vomiting, diarrhea, difficulty swallowing, muscle weakness, dystonia, and ataxia. Treatment is mostly supportive, but may include succinic acid, thiamine, or sodium citrate. A high fat low carb diet can benefit patients with X linked Leigh syndrome. Few patients survive beyond their teen years; respiratory failure is the most common cause of death. To learn more about Leigh syndrome, click here.
Calling for Change
Leigh syndrome has impacted Joe’s ability to walk and speak, along with his overall coordination. As a progressive disorder, his symptoms are only expected to get worse. A major part of his platform has to do with accessibility. Spending time outdoors is important for Joe, and he has been pushing for the handicap accessible gate to be reopened at Linn Park.
“It’s vital the park is open so people can walk and exercise to help them with their mental health which has been a huge issue for people during the pandemic. Getting out in green spaces is really important for me as my mental health has been greatly affected.” – Joe McCauley
He also hopes to push for improved public transit as well, as his illness prevents him from driving.
Voters in the region will have the opportunity to elect Joe on November 17.
