A NURSE who was forced to quit her job due to her battle with a debilitating condition has been described as "very brave" following her death.

Nicola Shergold, 55, was diagnosed with Relapsing-remitting Multiple Sclerosis by doctors back in 2017.

Those who suffer from Multiple Sclerosis – a lifelong and debilitating condition - can expect their vision, arm and leg movement, and balance to deteriorate.

Patients with Relapsing-remitting Multiple Sclerosis, meanwhile, experience “defined attacks of neurologic symptoms” which can either disappear or become permanent.

Gazette: Hospital - Nicola ShergoldHospital - Nicola Shergold (Image: Nicola Shergold)

After being diagnosed, Nicola, who had lived in Colchester for 22 years, had to give up her 30-year-long career with the NHS.

She then tried to raise £46,000 so she could undergo a private haematopoietic stem cell transplantation in Mexico.

It was hoped the intense chemotherapy treatment would “reset” Nicola’s immune system by removing it altogether before re-growing it.

Gazette: Nurse - Nicola ShergoldNurse - Nicola Shergold (Image: Nicola Shergold)

However, after making the difficult decision to cease her fundraising drive in order to focus on her family, Nicola died last month.

Nicola's partner Gary, said: "I find myself having to inform you sadly our very brave Nicola passed away suddenly on the evening of March 8 2024.

"I know how grateful Nicola was to everyone who supported her in her quest to fund stem cell treatment but unfortunately, life can be cruel.

"I know Nicola posted (on her page) that she had decided to concentrate on her family and cease fundraising, a very difficult choice for her to make.

"For now all I can say is thank you on behalf of myself and all of Nicola's family, rest in peace Nicola."

Nicola first started nursing in 1987 before training to become a midwife four years later.

She was laid to rest at Weeley Crematorium on April 30.

Nicola's family said: "We just wanted to say a big thank you to everyone who attended Nicola’s funeral.

"It was lovely to see how many hearts Nicola had touched. Thank you for all the cards, messages and donations! Karen, Paula, Tina, Irene, Gary and boys."