Chris Kamara Opens Up About His Incredible Journey with Speech Apraxia
Sky Sports pundit and former footballer Chris Kamara has shared an emotional and inspiring account of his journey with speech apraxia, a neurological disorder that affects his ability to form clear speech. In an exclusive interview with the Birmingham Mail, Kamara revealed that he was in a "dark place" after his diagnosis in 2019, but has since come to terms with his condition and is now working to raise awareness about mental health.
Kamara, 67, recalled that he initially struggled to accept his diagnosis, thinking that his condition would improve over time. However, with the help of therapy, he has learned to cope with his speech apraxia and is no longer receiving ongoing treatment. "My therapist told me that the day you accept your condition is the day you will start getting better, and that is what happened," he said. "I can be my own worst critic but my speech has improved and I’m fine with how I sound."
The sports veteran also opened up about his regret for not confiding in his loved ones during his troubled times. He revealed that he didn’t tell his wife, Anne, 66, about his condition, and instead kept it hidden from his family. "They spotted the signs (that I was struggling). I should have talked to my wife Anne, for which I have apologised to her. I didn’t tell my wife what was going on," he shared. "My family would have supported me rather than somebody I didn’t know. Anne, and my sons would have helped me in the first place."
Kamara’s journey with speech apraxia has also had an impact on his mental health. He admitted that he had "stupid thoughts" about his condition, including fears of dementia or Alzheimer’s. However, with the support of his family and therapy, he has been able to manage his mental health and come to terms with his condition.
As part of Mental Health Awareness Week, Kamara is collaborating with alcohol education charity Drinkaware and Andy’s Man Club suicide prevention charity to examine the connection between mid-life men’s drinking habits and mental health. He emphasized the importance of communication and speaking out about mental health struggles. "Alcohol can feel like a way out, a coping mechanism. But men need to talk more about their feelings. I grew up as a dinosaur in my thinking – you pull yourself together and get on with it, but I was wrong. We all need support."
Kamara’s career has spanned over four decades, including playing professionally for teams like Leeds and Middlesbrough, and working as a pundit for Sky Sports. He has also appeared on various TV shows, including ITV’s Ninja Warrior and the Apple TV+ series, Ted Lasso. In 2023, he was honoured with an MBE for his contributions to football, charity, and anti-racism efforts.
The Birmingham Mail reports that Kamara has become more sought after on TV since his diagnosis, but insists that it’s not his apraxia that’s holding him back. "Would you believe it, I’m getting offers all the time!" he said. "I’d love to do I’m A Celeb, but I wouldn’t be able to do the tasks. I also have dyspraxia, which affects physical coordination."
Kamara concluded by expressing his gratitude for his family and his career. "I have had an amazing career – it really has been unbelievable!" he chuckled. "But what I’m most grateful for is my family."
