Sean Ash
Going The Xtra Mile One
Fundraising for London Ambulance Charity
Story
On the 15th of August 2020, I suffered with a rare condition called Cauda Equina Syndrome which left me with paralysis bellow the waist
I was taken to QEQM and transferred to Kings College Hospital where I underwent a laminectomy and discectomy. Due to having high potassium levels and heart issues, there was a risk having surgery as I could have died, but I pulled through.
Unfortunately, the surgeons did all they could, and although they prevented me from further paralysis, I was left paralysed in my feet, up my legs, my saddle area and my privates. I now have to use a catheter to urinate and digital evacuation to empty my bowels. I started to suffer with mental health problems and wanted to end my life.
I was transferred to Stoke Mandeville National Spinal Injuries Centre where, I underwent physio, hydrotherapy and seeing a psychologist once a week. I was told that my injury was complete and there was very small chance that I would ever recover. I have worked really hard and done the near impossible by now being able to take some steps with my Zimmer frame.
I have only ever walked a maximum of 10 metres, but I’m going to go the Xtra Mile because our NHS staff all go the extra mile for us, and working at the London Ambulance Service has opened my eyes to the stress and difficulties that our NHS staff endure for us.
I want to help to give something back and I hope you can all rally behind me as I attempt to pull off the impossible. I will attempt to walk the Xtra Mile for the London Ambulance NHS Trust, walking 0.5 miles over two periods. I hope you can support me. I will walk with my Zimmer frame, wearing splints with my wheel chair behind me for safety reasons.
I’ll do my very best. Thanks for your support.
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