My Story

In December 2019 I had an accident at work which caused a severe break in my ankle and lower leg leading to first, an operation for an e-fix to keep my limb stable whilst waiting for a surgeon to become available and eventually, a second operation to fit the appropriate metalwork.

During the healing process unfortunately I suffered persistent infections and was on constant antibiotics. From March 2020 this was not helped by Covid-19 and the fact I was unable to see a doctor
face-to-face in order for them to look at my wound properly or to allow me the relevant physio. After several video appointments and a few face-to-face appointments when restrictions allowed, it was eventually decided the metalwork should be removed as I was advised some people’s bodies react badly to having a foreign object within them.

In July 2020 I therefore had yet another operation and it is from that point I have been reliant on crutches and in September 2020 was eventually diagnosed with Complex Regional Pain Syndrome (CRPS).

My Condition

There is obviously a lot of information available online but as a brief overview, CRPS is a chronic pain condition, usually caused by trauma and/or injury, and affects the nerves. As with a lot of things, symptoms often vary from person-to-person, but as well as the constant excruciating pain / burning sensation, can include swelling, skin discoloration, muscle spasms, changes to hair and nail growth, difficulties with temperature control. There can be psychological issues associated with CRPS as well, such as anxiety and/or depression.

For me personally it is mainly the constant pain and swelling that is the issue. A simple gentle knock on my foot that you would normally think wouldn’t be an issue can be bad enough to bring tears to my eyes. I am currently unable to wear a shoe and hence the reliance on
crutches almost 24/7 and also often find it difficult sleeping properly. Having always led an active lifestyle, including having a manual job, volunteering as an amateur boxing coach, enjoying travelling with my wife and having a busy social life, this has been a massive blow to me, but I do try to remain as positive as I can and don’t like to let it to hold me back.

Amputation of my left leg is likely on the cards at some stage which will obviously then bring its own challenges, but I plan to tackle that as and when necessary.

My Challenge

I’ve decided to face the ‘3-Peaks Challenge’, climbing Ben Nevis, Scotland (1345m), Scafell Pike, England (978m) and Snowdonia, Wales (1085m), although whereas most people who take this on do so within a 24-hour period, due to my condition and the fact I will be doing it on crutches, I am aiming to do one per day over 3 consecutive days.

In order to raise awareness of CRPS I am doing this as a fundraiser for “Burning Nights CRPS Support”, and hope to raise at least £1,000 for them (anything over and above this would be great!), which will go towards vital research, support and counselling to those living with CRPS, their loved ones and carers, as well as the almost 300 people being newly diagnosed in the UK every week.