WATCH: Meet the man who hiccups for 10 hours per day
"I would walk a million miles just to get rid of these hiccups".
Those are the words of Cecil Montgomery – a man who has been suffering from a bizarre condition.
The 62-year-old, who lives in West Bromwich, hiccups for up to 10 hours per day.
Doctors have been left puzzled by the condition which Cecil has suffered from since 2013.
He said: “I try not to let it bother me, but it’s a bit embarrassing – people think ‘he’s drunk’ and I have to explain I suffer from hiccups.
WATCH: Cecil appeals for help with hiccups
“It’s been a struggle – there is not a week when I haven’t suffered with the condition.
“When it started I thought it was ordinary hiccups – if I drank water it would stop after a while.
“But it’s been getting worse and worse.
“I have it when I’m sleeping, it goes on for up to 10 hours.”
'I've tried everything'
He sought help after noticing the condition was gradually getting worse but six years later he is still suffering – despite having been admitted to Birmingham City Hospital and also Queen Elizabeth Hospital.
“I’ve been to my GP and had medication – I’ve been to the doctors and the hospital,” he said.
“The GP sent me to the Birmingham City Hospital to have a camera down my throat, but it’s come back with nothing.
“I’ve tried everything and nothing has helped.”
The lorry driver, who works for Barking-based Colton Commercials, said having hiccups has impacted on his social life.
“It’s distressing, but I just try and get on with it,” he said.
“Some of the guys know, so they are not too bothered by it.
“It’s a little bit embarrassing that I have got hiccups, so I tend to keep myself to myself.
“I do go out, but if I do I try not to talk to too many people – I stay in the background.”
Last resort
Mr Montgomery, who is originally from Jamaica, said he often tries to “keep calm” – or go to sleep – when he suffers badly.
And now he has urged doctors, or anyone, to come forward in a bid to find a potential cure.
He said: “The doctors have done well and they’ve been very helpful.
“But I’m hoping another doctor has got some sort of idea – I don’t think I can live with it for the rest of my life.
“I would be very happy if someone could come forward – more than happy.
“I’m prepared to try anything.
“This is my last resort.”
Anyone who may be able to help Cecil is asked to contact his daughter Natalie via nataliemontgomery123@hotmail.com
