Former Sky Sports presenter Chris Kamara has revealed the extent of his ongoing health struggles with apraxia of speech and dyspraxia, conditions that have fundamentally changed his approach to work commitments.
The 67-year-old broadcasting legend, who stepped back from television two years ago following his diagnosis, now carefully evaluates each opportunity before accepting.
"I'm choosy these days," Kamara told The Star, explaining how his conditions have forced him to abandon his previous willingness to accept any engagement.
The neurological disorders affect his speech, balance and coordination, making him selective about situations where his symptoms might prove challenging.
Chris Kamara was given an MBE in 2023GETTYKamara candidly described the physical toll of his conditions, admitting "I'm really weak" when discussing his daily challenges.
"Going down these stairs isn't great," he explained, noting that whilst ascending stairs poses no problem, descending triggers his brain to signal he might fall, forcing him to grip the banister.
The former footballer revealed his struggles extend to air travel and other routine activities.
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"I'm not like the old Chris Kamara who would say yes to the opening of an envelope," he said, acknowledging how dramatically his health battles have altered his once-enthusiastic approach to opportunities.
Despite these challenges, Kamara has accepted a special one-day engagement for National Fish 'N' Chips Day tomorrow.
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Chris Kamara has opened up on the struggles of his conditions
GETTYThe television personality will be serving complimentary chip butties at Camden Market alongside Burton's Fish 'N' Chips on Friday, June 6.
This unusual role marks a rare public appearance for Kamara, who has become increasingly selective about his commitments since his diagnosis.
The decision to participate in the national celebration demonstrates his careful consideration of opportunities that accommodate his conditions.
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Kamara revealed he thoroughly evaluated this particular engagement before agreeing to take part, ensuring it would work alongside his apraxia and dyspraxia symptoms.
The dyspraxia particularly affects Kamara's ability to protect himself from falls, as he can no longer instinctively extend his arms to break a potential tumble.
"If I was riding a bike, when you stop, the brain won't allow your feet to go down and stop you falling. You just fall over the sides, it's crazy," he explained.
Chris Kamara played football for many years
PADespite walking normally, any stumble poses significant risk due to his impaired reflexes.
Kamara has discovered an intriguing quirk in his condition - speaking in a Scottish accent improves his speech flow compared to his natural voice, highlighting the brain's complex compartmentalisation of language functions.
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