Back Paige Mcdonnell.
Be part of the climb.

My name is Paige, and I want to share my journey of living with Functional Neurological Disorder (FND). This is a condition that has changed my life in ways I never expected, and I want to help raise awareness, understanding and support for others who are living with FND.

💜What is FND ?

Functional Neurological Disorder is a condition that affects the way the brain sends and receives signals to the body. It can cause a wide range of symptoms that can affect everyday life. FND is a real and often misunderstood neurological condition, and living with it can bring challenges that other people may not always see or understand.

💜My life with FND?

Living with FND has not been easy. My symptoms can affect me physically and emotionally, making everyday tasks that many people take for granted much more difficult.

I experience symptoms that can include difficulties with walking, balance and coordination, tremors, tics, seizures, pain and problems with my speech. My symptoms can be unpredictable, meaning I cannot always know how I will feel from one day to the next.

Some days, even the simplest things can feel like a huge challenge. My mobility can be affected, and I sometimes need to use a wheelchair when going out. After episodes, I can also struggle with speaking and may experience other symptoms that make it difficult to get back to my usual routine.

FND affects much more than just my physical health. It can impact my independence, confidence and ability to do everyday activities. It means I sometimes have to adapt my plans, accept help and take things one step at a time.

💜 The importance of my support system

Having someone beside me who understands my struggles makes a difference, especially on the days when things feel overwhelming.

I am incredibly grateful for the people who have supported me throughout my journey, including those who have encouraged me through education, personal challenges and the ups and downs of my health.

💜 My determination to keep going

Although FND has brought challenges into my life, I do not want it to define who I am or what I can achieve.

I am still working towards my dreams, learning more about myself and finding ways to move forward. My journey has taught me that progress does not always look the same for everyone. Sometimes, simply getting through a difficult day takes strength and determination.

I want to show others that having a disability does not mean giving up on your hopes and dreams. There may be obstacles along the way, but with the right support, understanding and determination, there are still things to look forward to and goals to work towards.

💜 Why I want to raise awareness and fundraise

One of the reasons I am sharing my story is because I want more people to understand FND. It can be an invisible disability, and people do not always see the struggles someone may be experiencing behind the scenes.

I want to help challenge misconceptions, encourage people to learn about FND and remind others living with the condition that they are not alone.

Every donation, no matter how big or small, can help support this cause and make a difference. By fundraising, I hope to contribute towards greater awareness, understanding and support for people affected by FND.

If sharing my story helps even one person feel understood, encourages someone to learn more about FND or helps another person realise they are not alone, then it is worth it.

💜 Thank you for taking the time to read my story and for supporting my journey.

Thank you to everyone who donates, shares my fundraising page or helps spread awareness. Every bit of support means so much to me.

FND is part of my journey, but it is not the whole of my story. I am still Paige, I still have dreams, and I will keep doing my best to work towards them, one day at a time.

Together, we can raise awareness, break down barriers and remind people living with FND that their voices matter. 💜