Hi, my name is Chris.

In 2014, my life changed drastically. A spinal cord injury left me facing unimaginable challenges, including learning to walk again and overcoming debilitating bowel and bladder issues. I was diagnosed with pain paraplegia syndrome, a condition that has defined my life ever since.

After years of grueling recovery, I underwent surgery in 2018 to remove disc material pressing on my spinal cord. While this provided some relief, the chronic nerve pain and decreasing mobility persisted.

Over the last 7 years I have undergone 4 nerve ablation surgeries and various other pain management surgeries. Whilst these help in the short term, the pain returns and often worse than before.

The past year has been particularly devastating. My mobility has plummeted, and the pain has reached an unbearable level, robbing me of any semblance of a quality life. Simple daily tasks have become insurmountable hurdles.

The NHS has offered two options, neither of which are acceptable as they do not offer a quality of life anyone should have to deal with the options are:

Annual nerve ablation (epidural injections): This involves inserting 12 gauge needles into my spine to burn away branch nerves, a procedure performed without sedation or pain relief. It's a temporary fix, offering minimal relief and immense discomfort.

A lifetime of heavy pain medication: This would leave me a "zombie," sacrificing my mental clarity and ability to engage with life in exchange for minimal pain management.

As you can imagine, being given the choice of surgery every year with minimum benefit, or a lifetime of sitting and being a drooling zombie. I refuse to accept these limitations. I believe there's a chance for a better life, a life where I can regain my independence and find joy again.

That's why I'm reaching out to you. I'm raising funds for two crucial needs:

A Power Assist Wheelchair: This will significantly improve my mobility, allowing me to navigate daily life with greater ease and independence. It will be a vital tool in reclaiming my freedom.

Life-Changing Surgery called a spinal cord stimulator: I'm exploring surgical options that offer a long-term solution to my chronic nerve pain and the possibility of restoring some of my lost mobility. This surgery holds the promise of a future where I can live a fulfilling life, free from the constant agony that has become my reality.

Your generous contributions will directly impact my ability to access these life-changing resources. Every donation, no matter how small, brings me closer to regaining my independence and reclaiming my life.

Please help me fight for a future where I can enjoy the simple things again.

Thank you from the bottom of my heart.

Chris