County Durham and Darlington teenagers support each other over health

A teenage couple have told how their serious health challenges have helped them to form "a bond for life". Ethan, 17, from Teesdale, County Durham and Abbie, 19, from Darlington, met at college more than two years ago. Abbie found out she had multiple sclerosis (MS) when she was just 17, a condition most commonly diagnosed in adults, while Ethan has lived with cerebral palsy since he was four. Despite his own health issues, which saw him wear a leg splint during primary and secondary school and later undergoing surgery, Ethan has focused his efforts on raising money and awareness for Abbie's condition because it is "really important" to him. Last year, he took part in the Great North Run raising £1,510, and earlier this year he organised an 80s-themed charity night in his village, Mickleton, raising a further £730. "I wanted to do something and raise money for MS charities," he said. "It makes a lot of difference. They're looking into research that could potentially help Abbie 10 or 20 years down the line." The couple, who enjoy going for walks, playing cards and "mostly, just chilling", said their relationship is built on resilience and understanding. Abbie said Ethan's support ha

Apr 15, 2026 → Apr 15, 2026