Latest news with #FunctionalNeurologicalDisorder
Scotsman
27-05-2025
- Health
- Scotsman
Edinburgh artist fundraising for wheelchair access as some users 'fall through net' of care
An Edinburgh-based artist is fundraising for a new wheelchair that would allow her to work more independently around the city. Sign up to our daily newsletter Sign up Thank you for signing up! Did you know with a Digital Subscription to Edinburgh News, you can get unlimited access to the website including our premium content, as well as benefiting from fewer ads, loyalty rewards and much more. Learn More Sorry, there seem to be some issues. Please try again later. Submitting... Shae Morgon is a 35-year-old artist from Gilmerton in Edinburgh. Five years ago, cancer treatment accelerated an existing degenerative condition called Ehlers-Danlos Syndrome (EDS), leaving Shae, who was also diagnosed with Functional Neurological Disorder in 2016, wheelchair bound. Shae Morgon was left wheelchair bound after cancer treatment five years ago | Shae Morgon She believes that people like her, who are ambulatory wheelchair users, are 'falling through the net' in the care provision that they are receiving - with 24/7 wheelchair use a stipulation for receiving funding. Advertisement Hide Ad Advertisement Hide Ad Shae said: 'Scottish Government guidelines say that to qualify for things like funding for a powered chair, you have to be fully 24/7 reliant on your wheelchair, and if you can stand and take even a couple of steps, you don't qualify.' 'So a lot of people with conditions like EDS, who are ambulatory to a degree, are falling through the net, and that's why we're having to fundraise and do things privately.' Shae is a contemporary artist from Gilmerton | Shae Morgon Now Shae is fundraising through GoFundMe to raise enough money to purchase adaptive wheels and batteries that will propel a manual wheelchair. It is the latest in a series of challenges she has faced as she studies HND Contemporary Art Practice at Edinburgh College. She explains: 'There has been a lot of learning curves on how to accommodate a wheelchair user in the studios, so I've had my space built to accommodate the stuff that I need. The issue I'm facing at the minute is I'm doing an art piece in a building called The Gatehouse, which is part of the Edinburgh College campus next week, but there's no ramp into it. Advertisement Hide Ad Advertisement Hide Ad 'There's only a temporary ramp, which someone has to come and put down, which means I can't work in there independently. It's just because these things have never come up, I'm the first one to encounter these problems and try and work with the college to find solutions.' However, the challenges are not just limited to college campuses, with the city itself being difficult to navigate at times. Shae said: 'It's so common, especially around Edinburgh. I'm working on an art project at the minute and photographing all the places in Edinburgh when I'm out with friends, and I'm like, 'oh, we can go in here', and then there's a step, but there's no access, and I can't go to these places.' Shae said that parts of her life are on hold until access improves across the city, and she is having to adapt how she approaches getting around, including getting a lighter chair. Advertisement Hide Ad Advertisement Hide Ad Her fundraiser was launched earlier this month and she has raised more than £400 of the £5,300 that she needs. Much of that has come from fellow students who Shae said see the challenges she faces every day. She said: 'The initial response was really good. A lot of it has been my classmates who have been really supportive. And they can see how having this equipment would make my day to day life in the studio easier, and all these things. They're around me all the time, and see the challenges that I kind of face.' You can donate here.
Daily Mirror
02-05-2025
- Health
- Daily Mirror
Neurological disorder could be reason why you're 'tired all the time'
A GP has said that people experiencing certain symptoms might want to consider asking their doctors about a specific condition If you're constantly feeling run down and under the weather, it might be worth seeing if a certain health condition could be the culprit. However, according to one doctor, it might not be so straightforward to diagnose. Dr Asif Ahmed, an England-based GP, suggested that those grappling with certain common symptoms might want to discuss the possibility of Functional Neurological Disorder (FND) with their doctors. He said: "We don't fully know why or how it happens, but [experts] think that there's a problem with the signal between the brain and the rest of the body." He explained that the problem is not just how your brain receives signals from the rest of the body - but how it sends signals out too. Dr Ahmed noted that this condition typically doesn't cause "any structural damage to the nerves of the brain.", reports Surrey Live. The NHS Inform website states that the issues occur "on a level of the brain that you cannot control". Symptoms of FND can vary greatly from person to person. According to Dr Ahmed, the warning signs can be "so varied and widespread". NHS Inform highlights key symptoms to watch out for: Limb weakness Functional/dissociative seizures Tremors Gait disorder (problems walking, such as dragging leg, feeling unsteady or making excessive movements) Facial or muscle spasm Functional tics Drop attacks (falling to the ground suddenly without losing consciousness) Speech and swallowing difficulties Persistent postural perceptual dizziness (gets worse while walking or in crowded spaces) Vision problems (vision can become blurred or reduced, you could start seeing double, or develop light sensitivity) Chronic pain, persistent fatigue, and sleep issues are also flagged as potential indicators of this condition. It could also lead to mental health issues such as anxiety, depression, and PTSD. Dr Ahmed highlighted that pinpointing Functional Neurological Disorder (FND) as the root of your health troubles can be a drawn-out and complex process. The diagnosis often relies on a method of eliminating other likely causes one-by-one as there isn't yet a single definitive test to identify the condition. The diagnostic journey can sometimes uncover additional health issues FND patients might be facing. This could involve conducting specific blood tests and scans to fully investigate any concerns. According to the NHS, the causes of "FND can happen for a wide range of reasons" and differ significantly from one individual to another. Moreover, having an existing neurological condition may heighten the risk of developing FND. While there currently is no absolute cure for FND, a variety of rehabilitation therapies are available. These aim to 'retrain the brain,' assisting patients in improving their ability to perform daily tasks. Medications may also be beneficial in addressing certain symptoms associated with FND, such as pain, depression, and anxiety. It's best to consult with a healthcare provider in determining whether medication is a suitable option for managing FND.
Daily Record
28-04-2025
- Automotive
- Daily Record
Moment BMW biker rammed off road by car before suffering life-changing condition
Horror dash-cam footage has captured the terrifying moment a BMW biker was rammed off road by a car - causing him to suffer a life-changing condition. Andrew had been riding his BMW S1000RR with a friend near Invergarry when he was knocked off his vehicle in September last year. As he and his pal rode along the road in the Highlands , they caught up with a HGV which was being followed by a Ford Mondeo. Both were travelling around 40 mph and so when it was safe to do so, his friend overtook the Mondeo and then the HGV. Still in the following position, Andrew performed a lifesaver check and moved out to overtake the queue of traffic. But moments later, as he moved alongside the Mondeo, it began to pull out into the opposite lane - forcing him off the road. Terrifying dash-cam footage captured from the HGV in front shows the motor swerving into Andrew as he attempted to overtake. The clip then shows Andrew, a dad-of-three, colliding with the verge before he is knocked off his bike. He was then filmed tumbling across the road as traffic was brought to an abrupt halt. The biker says he remembers nothing from the event apart from waking up in an ambulance. Andrew was rushed to hospital , where he was diagnosed with concussion, a fractured finger and soft tissue injuries. Initially, his doctors expected a straightforward recovery. But once discharged , Andrew began experiencing seizures, dizziness, and a pronounced stutter. His back pain and nausea worsened, leading to a readmission for further scans . At the time, was suspected he may have suffered a small brain bleed. Before the accident , Andrew had been a founding director of a successful wind turbine maintenance company, frequently travelling for work while also caring for his three daughters. But after the crash , his once-active life was reduced to struggling to leave his flat. His case was taken up by Motorcycle Law Scotland. Following detailed investigations, the law firm secured an acceptance of liability from the insurers. Initially, they agreed to fund his rehabilitation, recognising that supporting his recovery was beneficial for both sides. But as Andrew's symptoms persisted without clear improvement, the insurers withdrew funding. Despite the absence of structural brain damage, Andrew's ongoing symptoms needed explanation. He was assessed by a multidisciplinary team, including a neurologist , neuropsychologist, rehabilitation consultant, and speech and language therapist. Andrew was eventually diagnosed with Functional Neurological Disorder (FND) - a condition that affects how the brain sends and receives signals. FND often emerges following significant trauma and can present with seizures, speech difficulties, and other debilitating symptoms. Recognising the profound impact FND had on Andrew's life, Cycle Law Scotland advocated for his right to fair compensation. In February, the dad secured a substantial seven figure settlement . Andrew said: "From one of the hardest times that hit me so far in life after a motorcycle collision I was struggling with my insurance solicitors which gave no help whatsoever. A friend recommended Motorcycle Law Scotland. They took ownership of the case, organising rehabilitation, much needed help and a moral structure which gave me confidence. "They went about everything in a professional manner, also telling me every step in layman's terms . The team's guidance and care was amazing and for that I'm truly grateful. " Motorcycle Law represented me in the best way possible."
Time of India
25-04-2025
- Health
- Time of India
Teen girl walks into hospital expecting 4-day stay; walks out 2 years later after complete paralysis scare
By the age of 16, things had worsened so severely that she lost the ability to speak and was rushed to the hospital. Doctors suspected she may have suffered a stroke. She was only meant to stay for four days of testing—but ended up leaving two years later, completely paralysed. #Pahalgam Terrorist Attack India pulled the plug on IWT when Pakistanis are fighting over water What makes this India-Pakistan standoff more dangerous than past ones The problem of Pakistan couldn't have come at a worse time for D-St Unable to walk, talk, or even open her eyes, Megan was told she might never move again. Eventually, she was diagnosed with Functional Neurological Disorder (FND), a condition where the brain struggles to send and receive signals properly, leading to a wide range of neurological symptoms . Now 20, Megan is preparing to move into her own home and hopes to become a nail technician—an inspiring turnaround after years of medical challenges, according to a BBC report. by Taboola by Taboola Sponsored Links Sponsored Links Promoted Links Promoted Links You May Like Join new Free to Play WWII MMO War Thunder War Thunder Play Now Undo She spent time in the Eagle Wood Neurological Care Centre in Peterborough, far from her family in Bath. 'At 18, I was still just a baby,' she told the BBC. 'I'd never been on my own before. It was tough for me, but even harder for my parents to leave me there. I was paralysed from the neck down. I couldn't see, talk, or do anything for myself.' After 18 months of intensive therapy, Megan can now move her body, speak, and see again. Although she is unable to walk due to painful knee contractions, she is awaiting surgery and remains hopeful. Live Events 'I never thought I'd be planning a future when I moved into the care home. Doctors told my parents to prepare for the worst. They didn't think I'd make it to 18—and here I am at 20.' She's now saving up to enrol in an online nail technician course and looks forward to moving in with her boyfriend. 'I really can't wait. I'm so excited,' she said. FND Action, a support organisation, explains that the disorder affects how the brain functions rather than its structure. Symptoms can include paralysis , seizures, limb weakness, spasms, and walking difficulties. Though once thought to stem solely from emotional trauma, modern understanding recognises trauma as just one risk factor rather than the root cause. Unfortunately, stigma and misunderstanding still surround the condition.
Mint
24-04-2025
- Health
- Mint
50 seizures daily: Doctors tell teenager she would not survive to become an adult; check what happens next
Megan Dixon went to the hospital for some tests. She was discharged after two years. The teenager, who started feeling sick at 13, was eventually diagnosed with Functional Neurological Disorder (FND) at 16. She was left completely paralysed after a hospital stay meant for tests. Once unable to walk, talk or open her eyes, she had to spend two years in care. Now, she's preparing to move into her own home in Peterborough. She hopes of becoming a nail technician and rebuilding her life. At 18, Megan moved to a care centre far from her family for treatment. She felt alone and vulnerable. Paralysed and unable to speak or see, she recalled how hard it was, especially for her parents. She was diagnosed with FND, which disrupted signals between her brain and body. At her worst, she had 50 seizures daily. She couldn't speak, see or swallow. She was tube-fed and fully dependent on others. Now, seizures have reduced to 10–15 a day. "It was not easy. I think it was a lot harder for my mum and dad to have to leave me there on my own, but I couldn't do anything for myself. I was paralysed from the neck down," Megan told the BBC. Her life has completely changed after 18 months of therapy. Though she can't walk due to knee contractions, she can now move, talk and see. Once told she might not survive, she's now 20. "I was getting to the point that I nearly died in hospital, my body just shut down that much. The doctors did have to tell my parents to prepare for the worst - they didn't think I would make it to 18 and here I am at 20," she told the publication. As she is saving for a course, Meghan looks forward to living with her boyfriend. First Published: 24 Apr 2025, 05:02 PM IST
