Hi, my name is James (Jim or Jimmy to many) and I am a 42 year old proud Bendigonian and father to 3 beautiful daughters. Tragically, in 2019 I fell off my mountain bike during a week long bike ride to Mt Buller (I promise I wasn’t doing stupid tricks).

The accident resulted in significant damage to 4 of my cervical vertebrae and I was diagnosed with stenosis and spondylitis of the spine. The condition worsened to the point that I was experiencing significant pain and periodic loss of function of my arms and hands. As a result, I underwent surgery in January 2023 to have a cervical disc replaced with an artificial disk and the rest of the damaged discs fused.

After lots of recovery post surgery, I started to experience periodic episodes of fainting. My resting heart rate dropped from 60 BPM to under 30BPM. I was diagnosed with sinus node syndrome and received a pacemaker at the age of 39.

Since the spinal surgery, my health has deteriorated significantly and I have since been diagnosed with Dysautonomia believed to have been associated with the spinal surgery.

Dysautonomia is an umbrella term used to describe several different medical conditions that cause a malfunction of the Autonomic Nervous System. The Autonomic Nervous System controls the "automatic" functions of the body that we do not consciously think about, such as heart rate, blood pressure, digestion, dilation and constriction of the pupils of the eye, kidney function, and temperature control. People living with various forms of dysautonomia have trouble regulating these systems, which can result in lightheadedness, fainting, unstable blood pressure, abnormal heart rates, malnutrition, and in severe cases, death.

For me, I suffer periodic fainting, severe migraines, constant dizziness, pooling of blood in extremities, periodic blindness, severe brain fog and cognitive deficits, digestive issues and inability to regulate temperature. The list of symptoms is exhaustive.

I have not been able to work for over 2 years as a result and I am mostly in need of a cane on good days (a wheelchair on bad days) to get around. I have been lucky enough to have great support from family who have recently assisted me in doing some international travel before my condition worsens. But beyond that, I am limited most days to my recliner.

I have spent 2 years seeing heart specialists, neurologists and nervous system specialists across Australia. However, currently, my condition is considered too rare and experts in Australia are unable to properly diagnose and treat my illness.

A specialist clinic in Minneapolis, USA provide a 10 day diagnoses and treatment program. The program is highly regarded and considered the best on earth for treatment of dysautonomia. However, the hospital fees and travel arrangements are significant.

I am a very generous individual and have always given my time and efforts where I could. I love to have a laugh (I’m best described by friends and family as obnoxious) and I have a big heart.

I am a proud man who spent over 20 years working within the public sector specialising in public health. I have always been reluctant to ask for any form of assistance throughout my life but I am now desperate to find a solution so my beautiful girls can have their dad back.