Hey! I'm Hannah, 30 years old and live in Suffolk UK. I am raising money for life changing intensive neurological rehabilitation treatment as I suffer from FND (Functional Neurological disorder.)

Functional Neurological Disorder is a diagnosis where there is a problem with how the brain/nervous system is 'functioning'. Whilst basic wiring is intact, there is a problem with how the signals/messages are being sent and received to allow the body to function normally.

My story in short - In February 2022 I contracted COVID-19 and after being positive for 15 days my health rapidly declined. I was left unable to breathe, walk and talk amongst other things! After many phone calls to the doctors I was diagnosed with long covid and put on the waiting list for the long covid clinic. Once accepted, bloods tests were done which also confirmed I had hypothyroidism. Many medications were trialled for both of these however the symptoms were not improving. I saw specialists from various department such as ENT and speech and language who then diagnosed many other conditions too. In December 2022 it was suggested that I saw a private neurologist after a private osteopath appointment as she believed my symptoms could be something more. This resulted in being was diagnosed with FND (Functional Neurological Disorder). I was referred to an NHS neurologist who also confirmed the diagnoses, handed me a leaflet for a website to research and sent home. At the time there was no NHS treatment or pathway. After many GP appointments to try get help I was referred to neurophysio however after a year of trying this I was discharged as there was no further guidance they could offer as it was not beneficial to me. They suggested I was referred to a FND Specialist neurology centre in London to try a multidisciplinary approach, after waiting 2 years for a response I was rejected as I do not live in the London area. A second referral to another FND Specialist neurology centre in London was made but again this was rejected due to being oversubscribed. Furthermore, we have tried 3 other FND Specialist neurology centres which I am waiting responses from.

From meeting other people online from the FND community and the power of social media such as Tiktok & Instagram I came across a company called Apex Neuro who deliver "Life-changing neurorehab through personalised intensive programmes ranging from 2 to 24 days, specialising in conditions that are considered 'without hope'." I went for a consultation in May 2025 and was reassured that they saw progression meaning they could help. I felt heard and understood for the first time as FND is often seen as a 'fake' condition. After my consultation, I got slight feeling back in my toes/feet and was able to lift my leg a small amount. Does not seem like much but a massive progression for me! Following this consultation it was recommended to do a intensive rehabilitation course - 3hrs a day for 5 days.

Fast forward to September 2025, my Husband and I attended Apex Neuro in Macclesfield, UK and further progression was made using their knowledge and electrostimulation. Due to the complexity of my FND, more neurological rehabilitation is recommended and required. Though I funded the first sessions myself unfortunately I’m not able to continue paying these high costs. There is not only the cost of the appointments but additional costs will incur such as travel, accommodation and food. The funds raised will help with these costs.

It is important to me as currently there is no medication for the treatment of FND. Access to multidisciplinary care for FND is not existent in my area and getting a referral is postcode lottery. FND is still not widely recognised by many healthcare professionals, including GPs.

I was once very active participating in majorettes 3 x a week and walking to work daily which was around an hour. Now, I solely use mobility aids such as a powerchair when outside my home and crutches/walking stick. We are hopeful this Intensive Neurological Rehabilitation will see my mobility improve and increase my confidence to become more independent in living. Currently, I rely on my husband and family for daily activities such as washing/dressing, cooking, cleaning and travel for appointments.

I’m so grateful for anything you can give, or even just sharing my page across my social media. Thank you! xxx

For more information on FND please see - https://www.fndaction.org.uk/