A Hartlepool mum with debilitating Multiple Sclerosis has launched a £55,000 fundraising appeal to access specialist stem cell treatment in Mexico.

Lorna Robinson, a 36-year-old mam of two, has been living with MS – a chronic, autoimmune disease affecting the central nervous system – for 19 years.

In recent years she has experienced major relapses which have significantly affected her mobility, balance and use of her hands.

There is currently no cure, but Lorna is raising funds for HSCT (haematopoietic stem cell transplant), which aims to halt the disease’s progression, and in some cases improve function, by essentially resetting the immune system.

Lorna Robinson (right) at home with husband Liam and children Harper and Samuel.

placeholder image — Lorna Robinson (right) at home with husband Liam and children Harper and Samuel.

But she is not eligible for it on the NHS due to having had MS for more than 15 years.

Lorna, mum to Harper, 13, and two-year-old Samuel, said: “At 36 years old, with a young family and a full-time job, I feel I still have so much life I want to live and be present for.”

She was diagnosed with MS aged just 17 which she described as “completely terrifying”, but was able to live a fairly normal life until 2019 when she experienced a major relapse, with six active lesions across her brain and spinal cord.

Her mobility has gradually declined further since having Samuel in 2024.

Lorna's mobility has been significantly affected by multiple sclerosis and some days is unable to play with her children.

Lorna, who lives in Seaton Carew with husband Liam Robinson, 37, experienced another relapse in February.

“My mobility deteriorated quickly,” she said. “I couldn’t walk properly, swim, or even stand long enough to kick a ball with my little boy.”

She was given high-dose steroids which have helped to stabilise her condition but fears another relapse.

Lorna, who works at Fulifilm, in Billingham, says it is “frustrating” cannot access the treatment on the NHS saying: “I was always told I was not bad enough.”

A Department of Health and Social Care spokesperson said: “Our thoughts are with Lorna, and everyone impacted by multiple sclerosis.

“Specialist NHS neurological teams use their clinical judgement to inform their decisions about the suitability of treatments for patients and regularly consider recommendations for Haematopoietic Stem Cell Transplantation (HSCT).”

But Lorna said the response from friends, family, work colleagues, and the local community to her fundraising appeal has been “incredible”.

Her gofundme page currently stands at more than £13,000. Anyone wishing to donate can do so at www.gofundme.com/f/help-lorna-fight-ms-with-hsct-treatment.