Cauda Equina Syndrome Awareness Day

My Journey with Cauda Equina Syndrome began in October 2021. I had pain and sciatica for a few weeks and had been in and out of hospital until an MRI confirmed a diagnosis of cauda equina and I required emergency spinal surgery to prevent further damage from a large herniated disc which had been compressing my nerves. This has resulted in damage to my nerves controlling my bladder and bowel with some weakness in my right leg with slight foot drop. My mobility is now affected and I have to use mobility aids. I had to move house due to my change in needs and I have not been able to return to the career I worked so hard for. 

I developed depression and mourned the life I used to have. I am a single parent and felt guilty I was not the mum I used to be. I felt worthless and alone. I was frightened of what the future might look like. I didn't know who I was anymore.

I then found a Facebook support group. Cauda Equina spinal Cord Injury UK. From joining I felt the unwavering support from everyone. I finally felt like I wasn't alone. There is always someone there to answer any questions I have and there's always plenty of advice and information available and at any time. This improved my mental health, and I was able to attend a local meet up for support.  From there I heard everyone else's journey. I learned much more about cauda equina syndrome and gained valuable friendships who are there for support when I need and hope I am for them too. I have started focussing on improving my mental health. I feel like there is not enough mental health support especially after a life changing injury. The support group and friendships I've made has been greatly beneficial for me. I enjoy local meet ups, and I have the confidence to get out more. I am a much more positive person now. I don't feel worthless anymore I can still do a lot of things either at a slower pace or in a slightly different way now. I hope in the future there is more awareness of Cauda Equina Syndrome and better support in place post diagnosis.