FND Story I live with FND

Life changed, but I’m still me

Photo for Jamie Attwood's FND story
Shared with this story · Jamie Attwood
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What it’s like

Living with FND can be unpredictable. Some days I can manage more, while other days even basic things can feel difficult. My symptoms affect my mobility, cause weakness, numbness, pain and fatigue, and I also experience non-epileptic attacks where I can become unresponsive.

I use a walking stick and sometimes a wheelchair, especially when I’m out. One of the hardest parts is never really knowing what kind of day my body is going to give me. Things I once did without thinking can now take planning, support or much more energy.

FND has changed a lot about my life and my independence, but it hasn’t changed who I am. I’m still me, just learning how to live alongside a condition I never expected to have.

What helps

I’m still learning what helps me, but pacing myself and listening to my body are really important. I use mobility aids when I need them rather than pushing myself beyond what I can manage, and having support from people who understand makes a big difference.

Rest, taking things at my own pace and adapting how I do everyday tasks helps me stay as independent as possible. Connecting with other people who live with FND has also helped me feel less alone and reminded me that it’s okay to have good days and difficult days. I’m still learning what helps me, but pacing myself and listening to my body are really important. I use mobility aids when I need them rather than pushing myself beyond what I can manage, and having support from people who understand makes a big difference.

Rest, taking things at my own pace and adapting how I do everyday tasks helps me stay as independent as possible. Connecting with other people who live with FND has also helped me feel less alone and reminded me that it’s okay to have good days and difficult days.

A message for others

Give yourself time. An FND diagnosis can feel overwhelming, especially when you’re trying to understand what is happening to your body and what life might look like now.

Don’t compare your journey to somebody else’s. FND affects everyone differently, and progress doesn’t have to look the same for everyone. Ask for help when you need it, advocate for yourself, and connect with people who understand.

Most importantly, remember that you are still you. FND may change parts of your life, but it doesn’t take away who you are.

Thank you for reading

Jamie Attwood

I live with FND · Published 06 Oct 2026, 17:35

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