9 years ago, our beautiful friend, Gemma, had her life changed forever by Functional Neurological Disorder (FND), a complex neurological condition that affects the way the brain and body communicate. FND can cause severe mobility problems, weakness, pain, fatigue, balance issues and many other unpredictable symptoms that make everyday life incredibly challenging.

For our Gemma however, the condition has caused her to be in a state of complete paralysis for over a year now with no idea if or when she will be able to walk again. Additionally, her vision and ability to speak has also been compromised.

Since Gemma became paralyzed a year ago, she has been unable to access the upstairs of her own home, and has been forced to live entirely downstairs, where her living room has become her bedroom, recovery room and daily living space. What was once the heart of her home, now resembles a hospital ward. Her home is no longer fit for her care needs. Everyday tasks that we all take for granted, are now being carried out by her husband, family and carers.

As friends, we've watched Gemma's journey over the past year, and it has broken our hearts to see the way this debilitating condition affects her and her family. Her story has touched every single one of us.

We've seen the strength, resilience, courage and determination she has shown through unimaginable challenges since her diagnosis 9 years ago, and we've also seen her family fight tirelessly to get her the support and adaptations she so desperately needs to make her home not only accessible and suitable for her needs, but to give her back some independence and most importantly her dignity.

Family have exhausted every avenue available to get Gemma what she needs, yet they are still facing barriers that no family should have to face.

As friends of Gemma and the family, we want to do something to help. Gemma and her family insisted that it wasn't necessary, however, we feel it is and want to help in any way we can, as we know they would do the exact same for anyone of us.

We are therefore raising funds to help provide the home modifications that will allow Gemma to live with greater independence, comfort and dignity. The money raised will go towards vital adaptations to Gemma's home. At present, Gemma is unable to access her upstairs to use the toilet/shower facilities or her own bed. Funds will also be able to assist with other mobility equipment and safety changes that will help her move around her home more easily and reduce the daily challenges she faces.

Our hope is that when another severe flare-up happens, Gemma never has to spend months confined to a hospital bed in her living room again.

Gemma's motto through all of this is to take things "Step by Step, Day by Day" and despite everything she has been and continues to go through, she still shows up every day with a positive attitude and her pink lippy on. She is real life hero.

Every donation, no matter how small, will make a genuine difference and bring Gemma one step closer to having a home that supports her rather than limits her.

If you’re unable to donate, please consider sharing this page with your family, friends and community. Your support, whether through a donation or a share, means more than words can say. Thank you for taking the time to read Gemma’s story.

IMPORTANT UPDATE - 19th August 2026

Since setting up the fundraiser - we have been approached by local Building Contractor Chris Craig Joinery Ltd who has offered his services to build an extension on Gemma's home free of charge. Chris will take care of everything from dealing with Surveyors to the planning department and everything in between. Our goal therefore with our JustGiving page has slightly altered now. The funds raised will be used towards architects costs and the building materials for when the works are approved by the planning department.

To say we are overwhelmed with such a generous and selfless act is an understatement - we are so grateful to Chris and his team who are willing to take on such a mammoth task and are asking for nothing in return.

Our aim in the beginning was to try and give Gemma some adaptations within her current living space. But with an offer like this to provide a more long term solution for Gemma, is something we never even thought possible - thank you Chris Craig Joinery Ltd.

And also a huge thank you to everyone who has donated to our page so far. Words cannot describe how thankful we, Gemma and her family are xxx