Annika’s Story | FND Awareness Day UK 2026

Three years ago I had spinal surgery for Cauda Equina Syndrome, I recovered well but still had ongoing pain, pins and needles in my arms, numbness, sudden falls, balance issues.

My GP discussed possible MS. Last year had 2 further spinal surgeries within 5 days, due to complications – misplacement of pedicle screws and a tear in the spinal cord membrane that needed tissue graft. Immediately post surgery I couldn’t feel my left leg, had no sensation and couldn’t walk.

I spent 12 weeks in hospital during which time my sister died. There they diagnosed FND. Intense physio has helped me stand, I can walk a few steps in a frame. I haven’t been able to go home as I can’t live on my own right now so my sister’s kindly offered for me to stay with them otherwise I was looking at residential care. I’m working with physiotherapy at home, somatic therapy, psychotherapy and pharmacology support.

It is challenging at times though as my life has changed dramatically, but I’m determined to live independently, drive again, walk again, not be house bound or wheelchair bound.

I’ve had to stop and reframe my experience and learn so much about myself, my strength, my resilience, my boundaries and becoming selfless (not selfish!) by putting my needs first.

I am determined to climb this metaphoric mountain, learn to live alongside FND and who knows maybe I can climb a real mountain one day!

~ By Annika, Age 47