'I have invisible chronic condition that stole my balance and way of life'

Daily Mirror

31-05-2025

Steve's life changed after he was diagnosed with a rare balance disorder - Bilateral Vestibular Failure. He was forced to give up his long-standing job and move out of London. However, he has since found hope and confidence again through Jorvik Tricycles.
Balance disorders affect more than 1.8 million people - yet many have never heard of them. The 'invisible' condition remains largely unrecognised, both in society and by healthcare providers.
For 54-year-old Steve Watkins, a rare disorder changed everything. Once a professional tennis coach and lifelong fitness enthusiast, Steve suddenly found his independence ripped away when his body began to fail him.
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'Having been a keen cyclist and my job dependent on my active lifestyle, this change was a complete shock to me and my family both physically and mentally,' he said.
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It began with short dizzy spells. But within a few years, even walking in a straight line became impossible. 'From what started as short dizzy spells, within a few years I was unable to even walk in a straight line as I went from being an active 50-year-old to being unable to travel anywhere without assistance,' he added.
Desperate for answers, Steve underwent tests in January 2020 and was told to begin daily exercises. But nothing seemed to help. Doctors eventually discovered that his vestibular system, which helps the body maintain balance, had dropped to zero out of 100 in both ears.
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It was then that Steve was diagnosed with Bilateral Vestibular Failure, a chronic and incurable condition that damages the inner ear and disrupts spatial orientation, movement, and balance.
The vestibular system is a sensory system crucial for keeping us steady. It helps the brain detect head movements and maintain posture, and when it fails, the impact can be life-altering.
Sport wasn't just a part of Steve's career; it was part of who he was, and the idea of losing that part of his identity hit him hard.
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After nearly four years of battling worsening symptoms and with no known cure, Steve was told he'd have to learn to manage the condition for life.
'When my doctors first told me that staying active was crucial, I had no idea how I'd manage. Struggling to walk in a straight line,' Steve said.
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Told that physical activity was key to managing the condition, but barely able to stay upright, Steve had to find another way. He was forced to quit his job, and he and his wife relocated from London to Worksop, Yorkshire, to be closer to family and adjust to their new normal.
Then came a turning point. In a bid to regain some independence, Steve visited York-based Jorvik Tricycles to test ride an electric tricycle - and something clicked. His wife recalls it was the 'first time he's smiled like that in years.'
Discovering Jorvik electric tricycles has been life-changing. Fitness and exercise were my life; losing the ability to be independent and work was devastating,' Steve said. 'This tricycle has given me my freedom back and has been incredible to me mentally to get back outside and boost my wellbeing.'
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What once seemed impossible has now become part of his routine. Steve regularly cycles along Chesterfield Canal, Clumber Park and the Monsal Trail near Worksop, and is now an active member of a local support group for people living with balance disorders.
James Walker, Founder of Jorvik Tricycles, said: 'When we first met Steve, we were touched by his story and determined to help him. We're thrilled to hear that since discovering his Jorvik Tricycle, Steve has regained his freedom and independence and is now regularly exploring and enjoying the outdoors once again.'
From feeling like his loss of balance stole his life, Steve has pedalled his way back to independence.
'For those struggling with balance and coordination on a traditional bike, Jorvik Tricycles can offer the chance to maintain freedom and movement without the worry. To date, the business has created tricycles for thousands of customers with mobility worries and additional needs,' James added.