A LIFELONG Southend United fan who has been suffering from Parkinson’s disease for 12 years is fundraising to get spinal surgery that could bring an end to his daily “unbearable pain”.

Bob Mays, 68, is a Leigh-based patron of Parkinson’s UK, and has dedicated himself to helping others since his diagnosis with the terminal and degenerative disease.

Despite the countless challenges posed by the disease, Bob has climbed Ben Nevis, Scafell Pike and Mt Snowdon, as well as undertaking countless walks and challenges that have allowed him to donate £77,000 to various charities including Parkinson’s, Help for Heroes and Cancer Research.

Fundraiser - Bob at workFundraiser - Bob at work (Image: Bob Mays)

However, earlier this year, Bob found he had severe stenosis of the spine, crushing his spinal cord and causing unbearable pain that prevents him doing further challenges and the exercises required to keep his Parkinson’s in check.

A member of ABC Gym, in Eastwood, has created a fundraiser to help Bob get essential surgery that will put an end to his agony and allow him to walk again.

Bob, a big Shrimpers fan and Roots Hall season-ticket holder, said: “I’ve done lots to raise awareness for Parkinson’s including dance nights, auctions nights and challenges.

“The thing that got me into it was when I was diagnosed, I went to a Billericay support group with my wife. She was crying and said ‘you won’t end up like that will you?’, as advanced Parkinson’s is horrible to see.

“I said I wouldn’t let it take over my life. I see a lot of Parkinson’s people as I run a support group in Westcliff - it won’t kill you, but if you do nothing, it gets worse.

“People are amazed when they see me after 12 years, I’ve been told I am fit for my condition, but the pain is incredible.”

True Blue - Bob and team raise the Southend flag True Blue - Bob and team raise the Southend flag (Image: Bob Mays)

Bob made it to almost every home and away game for Southend United last season, and only missed two away fixtures due to pain.

He could not make Saturday’s long trip to Hartlepool, and added: “Speaking to my consultant, the symptoms are classic and once I have the surgery, which has an 85 per cent success rate, I will find myself walking normally again. I won’t have the pain anymore.”

The operation itself has no availability on the NHS, leaving no other option than to go private, which means Bob and his wife would need to find £10,000 to fund the treatment.

His fundraising page aims to raise £5,000 to go towards the operation. You can donate at: gofundme.com/f/bob-needs-our-help-for-an-emergency-operation.