Well-wishers raise funds online for Kate Joynes to support her duing her health battle

Well-wishers are clubbing together to raise money for an important member of a football clubs behind the scenes match-day staff.

Kate Joynes has been diagnosed with Cauda equina syndrome – a rare and severe type of spinal stenosis where all of the nerves in the lower back suddenly became severely compressed.

“When I became Lewes manager in February 2020, there was only one person I wanted to join my medical staff, that person was Kate Joynes,” said Hugo Langton.

“Although I didn’t know her, I had heard her levels of professionalism and the way she really cared about players’ health were top.

“After three or four months of persuasion she finally agreed to join me at the club and she proved everything I heard about her was right.

“Throughout, Kate had underlying medical issues but she ignored them to make sure she was always there for the players and to support me in my role. 

“She is an unbelievably professional, however, now Kate needs her help.

“She was taken into hospital in London and told she had Cauda Equina and as a result she is unable to walk right now.  This means also she is unable to work.

“Like everyone she has bills to pay and, as she is not able to work, she is going to struggle to get everything paid.  This is due to having time off to recover from having the Covid vaccine.  Kate may not fully regain strength in the limbs affected.

“Medications like diazepam, high dose steroids and injections to the spine are just part of her daily regime.

“It’s a massive ask, however, if you’d like to donate to help Kate, no matter how big or small, we’d be so grateful.”

Tonbridge-based Langton, who is currently out of the game in a managerial capacity, although he does run a successful football scouting business, has helped raise £755 online so far.

To make a donation, please visit https://www.crowdfunder.co.uk/kates-health-battle?experiment=1#start