'We don't keep score of who's caring for who - we just do it together'

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) at just 14, 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 wrist splints during primary school and later undergoing surgery to his legs, 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 has been overwhelming.

"I feel incredibly lucky to have someone who cares so much," she said. "He's seen how I've dealt with MS and the impacts it has on me. It just shows how selfless he is."

Her symptoms first appeared in her early teens, when her hands "went numb for eight months". When she was 17, double vision led to her diagnosis.

"At first I was pleased because I knew something was causing everything," she said.

"But then the shock kicked in. It's emotional not knowing what each day will bring.

"Some days I feel amazing. Other days I'm extremely tired or in pain."

Only a small proportion of MS cases are seen in children and teenagers.

Ethan, who has his own podcast and hopes to secure a broadcasting apprenticeship, is currently in his last year at sixth form college, while Abbie works at Bowes Museum and Hopetown in Darlington and is keen to continue working in the heritage sector.

The couple said their shared experiences help them support one another.

"Abbie got diagnosed about four months into our relationship, so it was really soon," said Ethan.

"But especially with me having a disability as well, I feel like it's bonded us together for life and I don't think anything can break that."

"We both have a disability, so we understand that some days are harder than others. It's just about helping each other out."

Abbie added: "We don't keep score of who's caring for who, we just do it together,"

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