A man from Lincolnshire, whose early motor neuron disease symptoms were mistaken for old football injuries, has transformed his life to rank among the globe's elite disabled snooker players.
A Seven-Year Search for Answers
Nigel Brasier, 56, from Spalding, was just 35 when he first noticed something was amiss. During a Sunday league football match, his usual sharp reactions vanished as he chased a wayward pass. When he started falling unexpectedly at his factory job, doctors initially blamed the wear and tear from his sporting past.
It began a frustrating seven-year odyssey of tests, including a lumbar puncture, electromyography (EMG) with fine needles in his muscles, and circulation checks. Finally, he received the life-altering diagnosis: a form of motor neuron disease called Primary Lateral Sclerosis (PLS), a slower-progressing condition that affects mobility.
"I was absolutely numb. I didn't know if I was going to live or die," Nigel recalled. "My whole life changed that day."
Finding Purpose on the Green Baize
After his mobility declined, forcing him from a walking stick to splints and eventually leading to redundancy, Nigel refused to surrender. He took up volunteering, but his true turning point came in a Boston snooker club.
A lifelong fan of the sport, he met disabled player Joe Hardstaff, who encouraged him to enter World Disability Billiards and Snooker (WDBS) tournaments. Walking into his first event in Northampton was a revelation. "People with one arm, wheelchair users, players who couldn't see or hear well. It was inspiring," he said. He was instantly hooked.
Now, six years on and nicknamed 'The Brave', Nigel is a standout competitor on the global circuit. His achievements include:
- Representing the UK at the World Ability Games in Thailand.
- Competing in World Championship events.
- Reaching finals at the Hull Open, German Open, and Irish Open.
- Finishing as runner-up in the Challenge Cup final at the 2025 World Championships in Thailand.
"Snooker has become therapy as much as competition," Nigel explained. "It helps me focus and makes me feel alive. When I'm on the table, I forget I have MND."
Championing a Cause and Seeking Support
Nigel has become a formidable fundraiser for MND causes, generating over £25,000 through his own tournaments. A career highlight saw him help make the MND Association the chosen charity at a Crucible theatre event marking the 40th anniversary of Dennis Taylor's famous 1985 win.
He has also met Princess Anne through his efforts. However, to continue competing internationally, Nigel now needs sponsors. The cost of travel runs into thousands annually. "If I can't find a sponsor, my next trip to Thailand could be my last," he admitted.
This January, he will take on a new challenge by participating in Doddie Aid 2026, the mass-participation fundraiser for the My Name's Doddie Foundation, founded by late rugby legend Doddie Weir. Nigel will log miles while practising, wearing the distinctive Doddie Weir tartan waistcoat he competes in.
"Doddie lived with the same disease I have," Nigel said. "His attitude inspires me. Anyone can take part. A mile round the block or a few steps between snooker shots – it all counts."
Nigel's ultimate message is one of hope: "I want to show people that even with a horrible diagnosis like MND, you can still live well in the time you have."
