FOOTBALL’S TIMEBOMB Fighting for Frank’s Law has taken its toll on me. My heart might be a bit dodgy but there’s nothing wrong with my tongue

DEMENTIA VICTORY

Graeme Donohoe Frank’s Law campaigner Amanda Kopel has told how battling for a change in care legislation has taken its toll on her health.

The 67-year- old revealed she has been diagnosed with a heart condition after she collapsed earlier this year.

Amanda finally won a pledge from First Minister Nicola Sturgeon that people with degenerative conditions will be supported regardless of age.

Her husband – Dundee United star Frank Kopel – was 59 when he was diagnosed with dementia.

The family struggled to pay for his care because existing rules mean free help is only available for over- 65s. He died in 2014.

However, it was announced last week that f ree care will be made available to anyone who needs it.

But Amanda says the campaign has come at a personal cost.

She said: “Fight i n g t he Government has certainly taken its toll on me. My family have been really concerned about my health.

“My son Scott kept saying, ‘Mum, for God’s sake, you can’t do any more.’ But I always found a wee bit more.

“I knew there was something wrong but I was just so focused on Frank’s Law.

“I got an angiogram and was told I had congenital heart disease. It’s possible I was born with it but it’s only just surfaced now.

“I guess the campaign has just put a strain on my body that’s brought it to the fore. Of course it has.”

Amanda, who was a guest of honour at Dundee United’s home clash with Dumbar ton yesterday, started her campaign in 2013.

She told how she began to feel pains in her chest two years ago but has suffered dizzy spells for longer.

Amanda added: “It’s 52 months since Frankie and I started this push. Even from the moment Frankie died and I was organising the funeral, people

As long as I can breathe, I’ll keep fighting for Frank’s Law