Hi, my name is Ayesha. I am Deaf and have lived with Still’s syndrome (a form of juvenile rheumatoid arthritis) since childhood. Over the last two years, my mobility has declined rapidly, and the pain I experience when walking or standing has become increasingly unmanageable.

After consultations with surgeons and specialists, I had a CT scan in May 2024. The results were devastating. and you can see some images from the scan and X-rays below:

• The talus bone in both ankles is upside down,

• The head of the talus is so close to the soles of my feet that doctors are concerned it will eventually pierce the skin,

• And because I am also type 1 diabetic, this poses a serious medical risk.

Surgery is not an option due to the risks associated with diabetes and SVT, and even if it were attempted, there is no guarantee it would improve my condition. My medical team has agreed that the safest and most effective way forward is for me to use a wheelchair, to take pressure off my joints and give my joints and plantar skin a chance to heal.

However, I am not eligible for an NHS powerchair because I am still technically ambulatory — even though my ability to walk is severely restricted and extremely painful.

Why I Need Your Help

I run my own business teaching British Sign Language, and I am a registered qualified sign language translator. My work is varied, community focused, and deeply important to me.

I:

• Support Deaf students at university, helping them access education on an equal footing

• Teach BSL in schools, introducing young people to Deaf culture and communication

• Deliver Deaf awareness training across multiple sectors, including the police, local councils, and Manchester Airport

• Represent several campaign groups focused on disability rights, Deaf sign language users, disabled entrepreneurship, and women’s advocacy

My work depends on my ability to travel, teach, and engage with people — but as my mobility has declined, so has my independence.

• I can no longer stand long enough to make a cup of tea.

• I rely more and more on others for basic tasks.

• I’ve had to give up gardening and cooking, two things that brought me joy and peace.

• And continuing my work — work that supports so many others — is becoming increasingly difficult.

A suitable powerchair would give me back my independence, allow me to continue working, and help me stay active in the communities I care deeply about. It would also protect my feet and joints from further damage and reduce the risk of serious complications.

What Your Support Means

The powerchair I need costs around £15,000, as it must be customised to support my joints, protect my feet, and meet my medical and mobility needs. Your donation will go directly toward helping me purchase this essential equipment.

This isn’t just a chair — it’s the difference between losing independence and keeping my life, work, and wellbeing intact.

If you’re able to donate, share, or simply spread the word, it would mean the world to me.

Thank you for taking the time to read my story and for supporting me on this journey toward safety, independence, and dignity.

— Ayesha