On 19th October 2024, a group of my family and friends and I are attempting to walk the Welsh Three Peaks, Snowdon in the North, Cadair Idris in Mid-Wales, and Pen y Fan in the South within 24 hours. It is a total walking distance of 17 miles (27.4km) and an ascent of 2334 metres (7657ft).

In February 2020, I underwent my first emergency spinal surgery after an acute onset of Cauda Equina Syndrome (CES). CES is a rare and severe condition caused by extreme compression of the nerves at the lower end of the spinal cord. These nerves control the sensation and function of the legs, bladder, bowel, and sexual organs. Once the nerve damage occurs, the effects are often permanent and many of us with the condition are left with disability, chronic pain and mobility issues.

I consider myself extremely lucky to have had a prompt diagnosis and treatment in the form of two decompression surgeries. With months of (and continued) dedicated rehabilitation, I have made a significant physical recovery… on the outside.

Since my diagnosis, my brother and I have wanted to complete a challenge and for Christmas this year he gifted me the opportunity with a place on the Welsh Three Peaks Challenge.

One of my main aspirations of this challenge is to complete something that will push me both physically and mentally. Whilst I work out nearly daily, have taken part in gym and other physical challenges and recently have even been cleared to start running again, hill walking remains one of my most difficult tasks due to the nerve damage in my left leg… So why not complete three hill walks in a single day?

Equally as important to me, I want to raise awareness of the syndrome as albeit severe, CES is often misunderstood or misdiagnosed, leading to delayed treatment and therefore the potential for devastating outcomes for patients. I received a diagnosis and treatment within 24 hours of the initial onset and unfortunately still have irreparable nerve damage and lifelong bladder and bowel conditions.

I would like to raise money for the hospitals, specialist spinal units and charities that have and continue to help me and other patients of not only CES, but also all spinal cord injuries.

Please follow @amymoss_welshthreepeaks on instagram for more updates.