I started physio and treatment for sciatica not long after I started secondary school.
I had my first back surgery to fix a herniated disc in 2009 when I was 17. I had my second surgery 4 years later to fix a subsequent herniation.
In 2015, I was diagnosed with Ehlers-Danlos Syndrome which is a hereditary condition causing defects in connective tissues. Because of this, I suffer from pain and weakness in all my joints.
I was also diagnosed with Advanced Degenerative Disc Disease.
Up until last year, I had managed with using crutches as and when I needed them.
Unfortunately, both conditions are progressive and I suffered a bad flare which saw me in need of a wheelchair.
We bought a cheap one which "did for now". We thought it would be rarely used and we would just sell it on when we were done.
However, the chair is being used more and more frequently as my flare ups become more frequent and worse.

I'm currently suffering a bad flare, causing horrendous nerve pain in my legs and weakness from the hips down.
The medication I'm on during flares also causes weakness and fatigue.

The chair I currently have is not fit for purpose. Everyone finds it hard to push and it is very stiff to self propel. The front wheels don't like dropped kerbs or any uneven surface and it's incredibly heavy to get in and out of the car.

I asked a recommended wheelchair retailer for a quote on a chair specific to me and my needs, but with made to measure chairs everything is an optional extra and comes at a cost!

The money I'm asking for will go towards a self propel wheelchair, with push handles, arms rests and foot plates. However it will be made to my fit and specifications. Wheelchairs aren't supposed to be one size fits all.

I am beyond grateful to anyone who donates and hope a new chair can help me regain some independence.