Thalidomide victims campaigner Freddie Astbury is critically ill in hospital.
Freddie Astbury, 48, was born with stunted arms and legs caused by the drug thalidomide which was prescribed to pregnant mothers to combat morning sickness.
He was admitted to the Royal Liverpool Hospital after suffering abdominal pains.
After suffering bowel problems complicated by his birth defects he was admitted to the Hospital's Intensive Care Unit.
Freddie, originally from Chester, has dedicated much of his life to working on behalf of thalidomide victims.
In 1993 Freddie went on hunger strike on Christmas Eve to highlight the plight of thalidomiders in the UK and founded the Thalidomide UK campaign group.
For the past nine years Freddie as worked closely with The World Health Organisation and The European Medicines Agency regarding medicines that cause birth defects.
In 2005, Freddie started a series of lectures to medical students about the history of the drug thalidomide and the various side-effects and disabilities it can cause.
Freddie's sister Rita Astbury said: "He is in the intensive care unit and we are all very worried about him.
"He is being aided with his breathing but he is a fighter and he is conscious and we are all hoping and praying that he will come through this as and get back to health."
Close friend and thalidomide campaigner Gary Skyner added: "Freddie has suffered bowel problem that are connected with the defects caused by thalidomide.
"Freddie is a dear friend and plays an integral role as president of Thalidomide UK. We are all thinking of him and wishing him a full and speedy recovery."
ruth and john, Benidorm around 2 years, 2 months ago