Help stop disability ending my dreams

My name is Lauren and I am 22. I am currently studying for a Masters Degree in Physician Associate Studies at a University in London. Once qualified, I intend to work within Paediatrics and Oncology which has been my life-long dream. I am urgently fundraising so that I can complete my Masters Degree and fulfil this ambition. I really want to make a difference and give back to the NHS as it has helped me so much.

 

I was born with Ehlers-Danlos Syndrome which is a connective tissue disorder where my joints dislocate often and I struggle with chronic pain on a daily basis. I am also tube-fed through a surgical tube into my intestines as I have gastroparesis which means my stomach does not work at all. These conditions mean that I am disabled, in a wheelchair and receive all my nutrition through my feeding tube.

 

I became very unwell during my teenage years and at 19 years old, I lost the ability to walk entirely which was physically and emotionally devastating for me. I was in hospital for months learning to push through the pain and walk again, and I dealt with some close calls due to lack of nutrition. I missed out on a lot during this time – time spent with friends and family, attending school and simply being able to eat a meal – which was really difficult for me as I watched others do what I could no longer to.

I've worked incredibly hard to build my strength to the point where I am able to achieve a place on the Physician Associate course despite being in an electric wheelchair now. In the time that I have been on this course, it's truly confirmed to me that this is where I'm meant to be to make a difference and help others. I am proud of what I have overcome and of how hard I have had to work to get to where I am today.

 

When I started my course in August 2021, I had funding lined up to cover the course costs. Unfortunately this fell through due to covid and I am now potentially unable to complete my course. I managed to pay my costs so far from savings and working as much as I can in my spare time, but the income I have unfortunately does not fully cover my costs. I have tried to find alternative funding, but studying for a Masters means there are not many options and as my funding fell through so late I could not access the few there are. I am determined to complete my studies and don’t want my lack of funding to prevent me from being able to work to help others.

 

I would be grateful for and appreciate any help at all for me to be able to continue my studies to become a Physicians Associate and work within our amazing healthcare system. My intention is to take as good care of my patients as my doctors have taken of me. I would also like to inspire other young people with disabilities to see that with hard work and determination, they too can achieve their dreams.

 

In order to complete my studies I need to raise a total of £20,000.

- £25 will pay for placement/travel costs for two weeks
- £50 will pay for a month of books/university/study supplies
- £600 will pay my fees for a month.

Any amount that you can assist with will be investing in helping me to make a difference as a Physician Associate.