Hi, my name is Charley, and I have been diagnosed with Functional Neurological Disorder (FND) — a complex condition that affects the way my brain sends and receives signals to the rest of my body. FND can cause a wide range of life-altering symptoms, including paralysis, seizures, speech difficulties, mobility issues, and extreme fatigue, along with cognitive and emotional challenges like memory problems, anxiety, and depression.

How It Started

My journey began suddenly when I experienced urinary retention — I woke up one morning unable to urinate. After several failed attempts to manage without a catheter, I had to have one placed. Soon after, my symptoms began to progress in ways I never expected. I lost feeling in my lower legs and feet, followed by episodes of numbness, burning sensations, and eventually complete paralysis from the waist down.

One night, around 2 a.m., I felt a rush of numbness up my legs. I tried to stand and couldn’t. I was rushed to the hospital where I had emergency MRIs of my brain and spine. Despite the scans coming back clear, my symptoms were very real and disabling. That day, I was diagnosed with Functional Neurological Disorder(FND). It was terrifying. I felt alone, confused, and scared.

Fighting for Recovery

I began intensive neuro-physiotherapy at Bath Hospital, five days a week. Slowly, I made progress — from being completely paralyzed to standing with support and eventually shuffling my feet. After two weeks, I was transferred to a community hospital. Unfortunately, there I received no physiotherapy, and I relapsed. I became bed bound again and completely dependent on others for care.

Eventually, I was referred to the Rosa Burden Centre, a specialist FND rehabilitation facility. However, there’s a two-year waitlist — and for someone with FND, that delay can dramatically reduce the chances of recovery.

Where I Am Now

I am currently living with my friend and her family because my home is not accessible. My mum and best friend are caring for me full-time. I now receive one neurophysio session per week, but I only have two free NHS sessions remaining. After that, I will need to pay £80 per session, which I cannot afford. I am unable to walk or stand without support — the longest I can stand is 6 seconds using a mobility aid. To make matters worse, I’ve now lost strength and sensation in my right arm, leaving me with only one functioning limb. This has completely taken away my independence.

How You Can Help

I am raising funds for:

Private neurophysiotherapy to continue my physical recovery

A specialist FND rehabilitation centre to access intensive care without waiting years

Private psychotherapy to support my mental health and trauma recovery

These therapies aren’t luxuries — they are essential to giving me a real chance at regaining my mobility, independence, and quality of life. The NHS simply can’t provide the intensive support I need within a realistic timeframe.

Any donation, no matter the size, will go directly toward my care. If you’re unable to donate, sharing my story means the world to me. Thank you so much for taking the time to read this — your kindness gives me hope in a very difficult time.

With love and gratitude,

Charley

Summary:

Private neurophysiotherapy sessions to help regain mobility

Access to a specialist FND rehabilitation centre (with a 2-year waitlist)

Private psychotherapy for mental health and trauma recovery

With the NHS waitlists being far too long, these treatments are essential for my recovery, but I can’t afford them without your help. Any donation, no matter how small, will directly support my journey to regain my independence. Thank you for your kindness and support!