I sustained my spinal cord injury in a road traffic accident in September 2019 while travelling in Kenya to visit my family village.  I had just turned 50 years old and had a good job as a housekeeping manager in a hotel. I was incredibly happy, outgoing, and independent and suddenly, everything changed, and I knew things would be very different.

This was difficult for my family, instead of a happy greeting when I arrived at their village, they instead were visiting me in hospital. It was such a shock for them. As time went on, it became more difficult for my family as I had to rely on them to help me with basic care. Before my injury my family had always relied upon me; I used to make plans, help everyone, and provide for others and now I was heavily relying on them, even for simple daily tasks.  Looking back, I think it got a bit much for them. It was difficult for us all, as I was used to being so independent and self-reliant. 

I spent three days in a small hospital before being moved to a bigger hospital in the city. It was tough realising the extent of my injury and being told I may not walk again. Spending six months in hospital and not being able to get out of bed was really tough and during that time I came to terms with what had happened. 

The aftercare in Kenya is very different to here (UK) and very expensive. I spent all my savings but there was no real rehabilitation, information or help with spinal cord injuries.  And then Covid happened so I couldn’t return to the UK. When I left hospital, I had no choice but to stay with my sister for about 18 months. There was only care, no real rehabilitation. I was told two days before my discharge that I would be going home and that was very scary. I didn’t know what to do. I was being discharged to my sister, who is not a carer and I couldn’t go to the toilet; I had no information on how to manage these things or how to use catheters”. 

I really wanted to go home to England so did the journey as soon as I was well enough and by myself. Travelling back was incredibly challenging, and it required a lot of planning and organising. The flight was horrendous as I had no idea how to manage my bladder. Looking back, I really don’t know how I managed it.  When I finally got back I felt so relieved. It was comforting to be back and to be admitted to the Spinal Injury Centre in Wakefield and receive the rehabilitation I needed. The Spinal Injury Centre environment was extremely helpful and I was able to be with others who had a spinal cord injury, which was so supportive.

Independent Living Advice

As soon as I arrived at the Spinal Injury Centre, I met Pete, Aspire’s Independent Living Advisor. He was such a positive part of my recovery, giving real insight into what the future holds and providing a bit of a road map. This was so helpful as the future felt so unknown. Seeing someone much further along on the journey was very encouraging. He explained things so clearly, helping me to know a bit about what to expect. Sharing his real-life experience was powerful.  He was also able to signpost me to other services to gain extra support. If I had not met Pete, I think I would have gone downhill; he helped me prepare for the future.  

Welfare Benefits Advice

I was able to get help with my benefits through Aspire. The service is excellent, beyond anything I expected. They went above and beyond, checking in on me and asking what I needed. Their help was so smooth from the very start. I really noticed the co-ordination between the staff was so good, everything was clear all the time. I never worried. I didn’t struggle because every email was informative and helped me to think forward and make plans. If I had done the PIP form by myself, I don’t think it would have been accepted because the form is very big and I didn’t know what the DWP needed to know. I’m a very positive person so I don’t think I would have given the true picture of what I struggle with. I’m very grateful that you all made me feel so comfortable and supported”. 

I’ve found that acupuncture really helps me manage pain, but the NHS doesn’t cover a lot of sessions. My PIP payments will pay for this and dental treatment as I had a lot of damage to my mouth and teeth in the accident.  Getting access to these benefits has helped me to be able to live independently.

Going home 

I was in the Spinal Injury Centre for 12 weeks and then it was time to go home. I was nervous and it was hard to think about being alone, how would carry out daily tasks such as cooking and cleaning? However, I knew I had to at least try it. Life since returning home has been okay, I have had both good and bad days.  Staying connected with friends I made in the Spinal Injury Centre has been very helpful, they even come to visit me. While also staying connected to the Spinal Injury Centre for check-ins and appointments.  It is comforting to have that support.

Having Aspire on the journey with me has been incredibly helpful and has helped me to face the future. 

Independent living

Welfare Benefits

Personal stories

How we help