My Dream to Stand
Donation protected
Eight years ago I was a passionate middle-distance runner. After a minor injury to my left leg whilst running, I developed Complex Regional Pain Syndrome (CRPS) . This causes extreme pain and sensitivity. I have attended hundreds of therapy appointments, including Physiotherapy, Hydrotherapy, Pain Management and Occupational Therapy.
I learnt to cope with the high pain levels and was managing to move on with my life. However, four years ago I was rushed in to hospital with a suspected stroke. I had no use of my right arm or leg. After tests, it was clear that I hadn't suffered a stroke, but it was unclear what had caused the paralysis of my right side.
After months of tests, I was finally diagnosed with Functional Neurological Disorder (FND). This is an umbrella term for symptoms that are similar to MS or Parkinsons, but the cause has not yet been found. Often, the neurological systems are healthy, but the brain is unable to control movements or receive sensations normally.
I have now got a very weakened torso, meaning my stability isn't good. I have lost my hearing, and have not regained any function back in my right side. I am completely reliant on a wheelchair, and due to my lack of movement, I have poor circulation.
However, I have been working with a fantastic physio and have been using a standing frame on loan from the hospital. My core strength has slowly been improving, but I have got to the point where the frame doesn't have the right support for me to get the most out of standing. It requires two carers to be present as I cannot use the frame independently.
I recently tested a new standing frame, and it was fantastic! I could use it independently, and it would enable me to use it regularly as I wouldn't be dependent on waiting for carer availability. Through regular use, my circulation would be greatly improved, along with my torso function. There are so many benefits to standing, and my quality of life would be greatly improved by this fantasic piece of equipment. It is called the EasyStand Evolv.
This is where you come in.... any support you can give would be greatly appreciated, as medical equipment does not come cheap!
Thank You
Fenella
I learnt to cope with the high pain levels and was managing to move on with my life. However, four years ago I was rushed in to hospital with a suspected stroke. I had no use of my right arm or leg. After tests, it was clear that I hadn't suffered a stroke, but it was unclear what had caused the paralysis of my right side.
After months of tests, I was finally diagnosed with Functional Neurological Disorder (FND). This is an umbrella term for symptoms that are similar to MS or Parkinsons, but the cause has not yet been found. Often, the neurological systems are healthy, but the brain is unable to control movements or receive sensations normally.
I have now got a very weakened torso, meaning my stability isn't good. I have lost my hearing, and have not regained any function back in my right side. I am completely reliant on a wheelchair, and due to my lack of movement, I have poor circulation.
However, I have been working with a fantastic physio and have been using a standing frame on loan from the hospital. My core strength has slowly been improving, but I have got to the point where the frame doesn't have the right support for me to get the most out of standing. It requires two carers to be present as I cannot use the frame independently.
I recently tested a new standing frame, and it was fantastic! I could use it independently, and it would enable me to use it regularly as I wouldn't be dependent on waiting for carer availability. Through regular use, my circulation would be greatly improved, along with my torso function. There are so many benefits to standing, and my quality of life would be greatly improved by this fantasic piece of equipment. It is called the EasyStand Evolv.
This is where you come in.... any support you can give would be greatly appreciated, as medical equipment does not come cheap!
Thank You
Fenella
Organizer
Fenella Johnson
Organizer
