Once again I will be undertaking a vow of silence beginning the 22nd of November (this time a week long) in order to raise awareness of some of the symptoms of FND (Functional neurological disorder) a rare condition that affects the brain in a variety of ways including: the loss of speech, weakness in the limbs, sensory dysfunction and seizures.

A number of years ago my dad had an accident at work resulting in a brain injury.  For a long time we did not understand or know what was going on.  He had debilitating migraines, could not walk properly and most devastatingly he could not make a single sound. It was not until 2018 that we received any form of diagnosis. It has been a long road for my family and my dad and we now Iive with the unpredictable nature of this condition. Some days my dad can talk and the next he cant and we never know when his voice will return and although he is personally doing a lot better these days, there are many people and families out there dealing with the condition for the first time and if this can help bring just a bit more awareness I will be happy.

I am doing this once again so that I myself can experience what it is like to live without a voice and more importantly raise awareness for those living with  FND. Last time I raised well over £500 pounds and didn't speak for a grand total of 24 days. While this time round is significant shorter if I surpass the original money I raised last time I will add an additional 7 days. Yes you read that right, for £530 I will shut up for two whole weeks!!

For the sake of 100% transparency they're are some exceptions to my vow that I will be making, due to the nature of my work I will need to speak however you have my word as soon each shift is done I will be keeping it zipped!