Support Yuri Ray: A former police officer's battle against ALS and FTD

The family of former police officer Yuri Ray is appealing to the public for support as he battles amyotrophic lateral sclerosis (ALS) and frontotemporal dementia (FTD).

Mr Ray, from Capri Village, served at the Diep River Police Station for 18 years. Due to the severity of his illness, he is no longer able to work.

He was diagnosed with ALS and FTD in July last year at Groote Schuur Hospital.

“It was a feeling I can’t adequately describe,” Mr Ray said. “It was life-changing, but in the worst way.”

He said his symptoms began in November with pins and needles in his left pinky finger, and progressed rapidly. He soon lost the ability to walk and perform daily tasks independently.

He now uses an electric wheelchair and relies on a Bilevel Positive Airway Pressure (BiPAP) ventilator at night to assist his breathing.

Adjusting to his condition has been extremely difficult, he said. “I was strong, active, and independent. I am now the opposite, physically."

Mr Ray’s wife, Chavonne Ray, has been caring for him throughout his illness.

In November, she launched a BackaBuddy fundraising campaign to help cover medical treatment and essential equipment costs. To date, the campaign has raised more than R110 000, allowing the family to purchase an electric wheelchair.

“This gives me the freedom to leave the house, go for walks in the neighbourhood with Chavonne, and visit her family who live about one kilometre away,” said Mr Ray.

The funds have also helped pay for a hospital bed, an electric hoist, caregivers, absorbent adult briefs and linen savers. However, the family is still raising money for a correctly sized BiPAP mask, a cough assist machine, and an eye-gaze communication device, as Mr Ray is increasingly struggling to speak.

“The support has been overwhelmingly phenomenal,” he said. “We are extremely grateful.”

Before his illness, Mr Ray said he enjoyed fishing, hiking, beach walks, swimming in tidal pools, and hosting braais for family and friends. One of his wishes is to find a safe way to return to the ocean.

Mr Ray has three children from a previous marriage. He currently lives with his wife and his youngest son, Logan, who stays with them every second week.

Ms Ray said that while adapting emotionally has been manageable, the physical and financial strain has been significant. One of the biggest challenges is transporting her husband, who is nearly 1.9 metres tall and weighs over 100kg.

“I cannot lift him safely in and out of the car,” she said. “If I had the money, I would buy a wheelchair-adapted vehicle, allowing him to remain in his wheelchair," she said.

Ms Ray recently started a new job but has had to take out two loans to help support her husband.

Those wishing to assist Mr Ray can visit his BackaBuddy fundraising page.

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