In June 2021, at age 27, my life changed dramatically. A rare condition called Hemicrania Continua, previously managed, became intractable following a vaccine reaction. This led to constant, severe head pain (minimum 8/10 on the pain scale) and numerous other debilitating symptoms affecting my whole body.

From being an engineer and competitive powerlifter, I'm now disabled, unable to work, and dependent on my mother's care. Despite eight treatments and two neurosurgeries, including a nerve stimulator implant, my condition continues to worsen.

Daily, I face:

• Severe neuropathic pain, numbness and tremors

• Tinnitus

• Extreme fatigue and cognitive issues

• Mobility problems (requiring a walking stick for distances over 100m)

• Severe reactions to foods and some medications

• Tachycardia

• Various other symptoms affecting my quality of life

I've exhausted my savings on private appointments in the early stages, and now, three years on, I'm no closer to answers or effective management. I get maybe 3 hours a week of functional time, and my greatest fear is not just staying like this, but getting worse.

I'm seeking £500 to help me:

1. Consult with Dr. Claire Taylor, a specialist in post-vaccine syndromes and neuroscience (£300)

2. Purchase a Visible wearable to monitor my health and manage energy levels (£50)

3. Buy a perching stool to help with daily tasks like food preparation (£56)

4. Get a supportive Dunlopillo pillow for pain management (£94)

Any additional funds will go towards:

• Caring for my aging dog, Bella, who has been my lifeline through this ordeal , who's own ill-health is my main priority

• Potential follow-up treatments or tests advised in the consultation

• Occasional dog-walking services for Bella

Your support, even just £1 or sharing this campaign, could help me find answers and improve my quality of life. These are supposed to be the best years of my life and I’m too young to not fight to experience them. These may seem like small investments, but they're currently out of reach and could make a significant difference in my day-to-day life and in finding a path forward.

For more about my journey and the full version of this, visit my blog: https://lettersfrommybed.co.uk/2024/08/30/why-and-what-im-fundraising-for/