Ann Wheeler

Ann's There is life after Cauda Equina

Fundraising for The Lake District Calvert Trust

Story

In 2011 I was diagnosed with Cauda Equina, which at the time I didn't think it was very serious. Within days, I was operated on, and from that day on I have suffered with pain but I carried on.

In the early days I wanted to give in but something changed, as I still wanted to do long distance swimming, which was my passion before the operation. So I decided to enter the 5.25 mile swim in Coniston in September 2012. I completed it on September 5th 2012. From that day on I have been setting myself challenges and this year I swam Windermere's 10.5 mile swim.

As I got stronger, I started walking mountains and it's the best thing I've done. Up to date, I have climbed 100 Wainwright's, and have decided to raise money for the Lake District Calvert Trust, which is close to my heart.

I am also helping other Cauda Equina sufferers, there is hope after this condition. It is hard but keeping positive is the best way.

http://www.express.co.uk/life-style/life/551736/Rare-spinal-condition-paralysed

http://www.lep.co.uk/news/rare-condition-left-preston-adventurer-days-away-from-being-paralysed-1-7045810

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About the charity

The Lake District Calvert Trust

Verified by JustGiving

RCN 270923

www.calvertlakes.org.uk

The Lake District Calvert Trust provides residential outdoor activity courses for people of all ages with physical, sensory, learning, behavioural and/or mental disabilities. Its mission is to challenge disability through outdoor adventure. Pioneering equipment adaptations, and intensive, instructor-led activity programmes (that include climbing, abseiling, canoeing, sailing, horse/trap driving, archery, orienteering and paragliding), provide an environment whose aims are to teach, challenge, motivate, engender confidence in ability, promote independence, and foster integration. All instructors are highly trained and specialist qualified, and the facilities are specially adapted and fully accessible to all. The Lake District Calvert Trust provides a unique and life-changing experience for those with disabilities, who are encouraged to believe that it’s what you CAN do that counts.