<p>In May 2010 I underwent a routine MRI scan on my neck which would ultimately change my life. The scan showed a vascular tumor which was about the size of a tennis ball growing in my cervical spine. It was growing inside my spinal cord and there was hardly any room left. A very rare condition affecting one in five million people and if not removed would result in full paralysis of my body.</p> <p>Over the coming weeks I started to lose feeling in my hands and all my power in my upper body. This period was one of mixed emotions and frustrations. The future now was not so simple and I knew there was going to be some very dark times ahead. The day I was told this was like no other day and I was in shock and it never really sank in.</p> <p>After two operations, and with fantastic support from family and friends, I am beginning to recover slowly. This experience of how fragile the human body can be and what we take for granted on a daily basis has changed my life forever and is why I am supporting the Brain and Spine Foundation.</p> <p>Please support the Brain and Spine Foundation and the work they do, let's support people who go through this and raise awareness. I have been very lucky to have had the best support and with constant physio to get be fit and strong, most people dont have this support system and we need to make sure they get help.</p> <p>Now the new journey really begins as I start learning to walk again, trying to get my left arm working and rebuild my body so I can go out and live life. The one thing I will never do again is moan about stupid stuff as going through this experience has really put so much into perspective for me on how great life is if you live it and embrace each day.</p> <p>Donating through JustGiving is simple, fast and totally secure. Your details are safe with JustGiving &ndash; they&rsquo;ll never sell them on or send unwanted emails. Once you donate, they&rsquo;ll send your money directly to the charity and make sure Gift Aid is reclaimed on every eligible donation by a UK taxpayer. So it&rsquo;s the most efficient way to donate - I raise more, whilst saving time and cutting costs for the charity.</p> <p>So please dig deep and donate now.</p>