Kate's New Wheels

Hi, I'm Kate and I'm 22 years old. I have a number of complex health conditions; including ME, EDS and Vasovagal Syncope. This means that I've been severely ill for the past 9 years and reliant on a wheelchair when I have to walk more than a few meters. 5 years ago some of my friends grouped together and bought me my own manual wheelchair which has been a lifesaver. Unfortunately, this is becoming less suitable for my needs. Other than generally falling apart after it's years of use I now really struggle having my legs down as it gives me a lot of pain and the blood pools to my feet causing me to faint. Another major issue is due to health reasons my mum & dad are struggling to push my chair & lift it out the car. This means that pretty soon, unless I get a power chair and my car adapted, I won't be able to go out. This will be a major issue as I have hospital appointments 4 times a week, but I also love volunteering and family trips out when I have the energy + the last thing I want to do is become more isolated. I had an appointment with my specialist a month back and  what I haven't told many people (as it's obviously upsetting) is that my prognosis is now I won't get better, we are just hoping I can work really hard at stabilizing my condition. Getting a power chair means I can have a bit of independence but also I'll be more comfortable and manage trips out more often. The chair I've been measured for has a tilt in space & recline so my legs can be raised up, whilst being a lot more supportive for my body. I am (hopefully) getting an assistance dog soon so I want to be able to walk him/her and go on days out again with my family without being in agonizing pain. I always try help people out in my community with anything I can, so now I'm asking for a little bit back if anyone is able to help. Whether its £1 or £10 I truley appreciate anything anyone can help put towards the cost of my chair and hopefully it'll help me 'live' a bit of a more comfortable life. Kate x