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I'm a mountain biker and cyclist. I've competed in numerous endurance events over the years. I'm ex-military and I've always been fit, healthy and active......until Jan 22.

l'm now recovering from a Spinal Cord Injury due to Cauda Equina Syndrome, and have had to teach my legs how to walk again!!!

What started out as a twinge in my back after picking up a pair of shoes, turned out to be a ruptured disc. This herniated disc ended up compressing the nerves in the base of my spine, which slowly and painfully switched off my legs and function below the waist.

This is Cauda Equina Syndrome!

I received an emergency discectomy operation, after being told by a doctor in A&E to lie perfectly still or else I would be left paralysed and incontinent for life!!!

I was able to stand up the morning after the procedure, and I have slowly been able to learn to walk again. Although I have been left with reduced sensation on my feet and legs which affects my balance and foot placement, (but has meant that I've finally been able to get the smiley face tattoos on my toes that I've been joking about for years, and all with out any pain!)

I am one of the fortunate ones, my condition was caught in time. I have been able to continue working. I have had support from family and friends. I happened to have a downstairs toilet with a walk in shower. I do not require any equipment other than a walking stick to get through each day.

Others aren't so fortunate. Spinal Injuries strike people down without warning and turn lives upside down. Please donate to help the Spinal Injuries Association support people to live their lives after a Spinal Injury and to come to terms with conditions like Cauda Equina Syndrome.

Donating through JustGiving is simple, fast and totally secure. Your details are safe with JustGiving - they'll never sell them on or send unwanted emails. Once you donate, they'll send your money directly to the charity. So it's the most efficient way to donate - saving time and cutting costs for the charity.