Hi, my name is Megan. I’m 21 years old, and I’ve been fighting for my health since I was just 13.

Over the past eight years, I’ve faced battles that most people can’t imagine. At one point, I was paralysed, blind, unable to speak, and unable to swallow for four long years. Somehow, I fought my way through that. But now, I’m facing the biggest and most terrifying challenge of my life.

For the last eight years, my legs have been fixed in a straight position. Over the past four years, they have gradually begun bending the wrong way. My left leg, the worst affected, is now bent at a 45-degree angle in the wrong direction. The pain is constant and extreme. I can’t manage simple daily tasks, like getting to the toilet on my own. Most days are spent in bed, overwhelmed and crying out in agony.

I’ve seen six different surgeons, and each one turned me away because they couldn’t determine what caused my legs to deform this way. After years of searching, I’ve finally found a surgeon willing to take on my case. I am incredibly grateful — but because of how long this has gone untreated, my only remaining surgical option is to have both of my legs amputated.

Even writing those words feels unreal. I am absolutely terrified. My surgery is scheduled for August 20th, and I am trying to prepare myself mentally and physically for what lies ahead.

This is where I humbly ask for your help, to raise money for a specialist wheelchair and any other medical equipment I need.

I will need a properly fitted wheelchair. Wheelchair services can only provide a basic model, but due to the severity of my pain and the possibility that I may not be able to use prosthetic legs, I may become a full-time wheelchair user. A custom-fitted wheelchair would prevent further pain and complications. If we are fortunate enough, an electric wheelchair would give me something I haven’t had since I was 13 — independence. The ability to move freely without always relying on someone to push me would truly change my life.

I won’t pretend I’m not scared. I question daily whether I’m strong enough to face this. But having financial support would lift an enormous weight from my shoulders and allow me to focus fully on surviving this surgery and rebuilding my life.

I just want to be normal, to have a normal life. To regain my independence fully. However, if I manage to get myself an electric wheelchair, I will be able to regain more independence than I ever thought I’d have again. Not having to rely on someone pushing me whenever I go will be immensely freeing for me.

Thank you, from the bottom of my heart, for taking the time to read my story. If you are able to donate anything at all, no matter how small, I will be forever grateful. And if you can’t donate, simply sharing my story would mean the world to me.

With all my love Megan