Redefining Life with FND: Ella’s Journey After a Spinal Injury
Meet Ella, a creative force with a passion for photography, media, and art. But beyond her creative energy and calm book-loving vibes, Ella lives with multiple chronic illnesses, including Functional Neurological Disorder (FND), chronic migraines, and gastroparesis. After a life-changing spinal injury at 18, she began using mobility aids, and her journey of acceptance, adaptation, and advocacy began. We feel so grateful to be a part of Ella's story because she really is a bright star, and we know she is going to uplift and inspire so many of you too 💚
✨ When Life Changed
Everything changed for me when I was 18. Just as life was meant to be starting, mine hit pause. I had a serious spinal injury, and since then, I’ve been diagnosed with over ten conditions (and counting). One of the biggest shocks was being told I had Functional Neurological Disorder (FND) in 2023, something I’d never even heard of. It messes with how the brain talks to the body, and for me, that means things like pain, seizures, and paralysis.
I’ve also been hit with chronic and hemiplegic migraines (which feel like mini-strokes), and gastroparesis, which has been a whole other challenge. It’s been a lot to figure out, and I’m still learning how to deal with it all. I had to relearn how to walk, and I still use mobility aids every day. But I’m driving again now and getting my independence back, which honestly felt impossible at one point.
As someone who likes to have a plan, I didn’t know what to expect anymore, everything I had once imagined had changed. One of the biggest worries was that people would judge or see me differently, but I’m fortunate to have super supportive people in my life who love me for who I am.
I’m grateful that my disability has given me the chance to see life from a different perspective. I’ve learned that when something difficult happens, there’s always a way to figure things out. I believe everything happens for a reason, even though the process of navigating and adjusting can be full of challenges.
💕 My Mobility Aid Glow-Up
When I first started using mobility aids, I hated it. I felt awkward and embarrassed and just missed being able to do things without thinking. At first, I used a wheelchair, but as soon as I was able to walk again, I moved onto crutches, and they've been part of my daily life since. My conditions cause limb paralysis, muscle weakness, chronic pain, and various neurological symptoms, so mobility aids are essential for helping me get around.
Like everyone, I started with hospital crutches which were awful. They left my hands and joints sore, were super loud and didn't feel stable. When I found Cool Crutches everything changed. The moulded handles make them comfortable and the ferrules provide great grip and stability. The switch also had a positive impact on my mental health. I no longer feel self-conscious about using crutches because I love my glittery collection, they all match my style and help me feel like me again! Plus, I get loads of compliments when I’m out which is such a confidence boost.
🧠 Adjusting To My New Normal
The mental side of becoming disabled is no joke. It’s a complex, lonely and confusing journey. I didn’t recognise myself anymore and had to adapt to a new version of my body that could no longer do the things I used to love doing. The journey was super frustrating and overwhelming, but slowly, I learned to enjoy the smaller things in life and appreciate the memories I could make.
💝 My Tips
To anyone that is facing a recent diagnosis, recovering from an accident or living with a disability, try and surround yourself with people who truly understand and support you. People who see you beyond your condition. Finding community, especially with others who’ve had similar experiences, can be incredibly comforting. Don’t stress over friendships or relationships; the right people will come, and judgment says more about them than you.
Celebrate the small wins - whether it’s completing a task or noticing a blue sky. These little moments can shift your mindset. Give yourself time to feel and process; it’s okay to have both good and bad days, especially as symptoms can vary. Grieving your old life is part of the journey, but things will improve with time.
Find ways to express yourself, like writing, talking, or art. Having outlets and spending time in nature can help ease the mental load.
Most importantly, be kind to yourself! Rest when needed, practice self-compassion, and focus on your strengths. You're doing the best you can, and that’s more than enough!!
🎒 My Ride-or-Die Essentials
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Cool Crutches mobility aids (Specifically the glittery ones!)
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Heat & cold patches
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My Access Card - one of many disability benefits that can make life easier, check out Cool Crutches Disability Guide to find a full list of useful tools.
💻 Work Life
When I was diagnosed, my disability drastically changed what I could do. I had to step away from previous roles due to physical limitations and the need to manage a wide range of symptoms. But within those changes, I discovered new paths. My condition didn’t just close doors; it opened new ones to creativity, advocacy, and connection.
Leaning into what I could do led me to spaces where I could express myself, support others, and raise awareness around mental health and disability. I’ve focused on content that’s relatable and accessible, grounded in lived experience. That personal experience has allowed me to help create supportive communities where people feel heard, understood, and empowered.
Today, I work with charities and platforms like The Mix UK and the disability podcast lABLEd, contributing to content creation, podcast hosting, and media campaigns. These uplifting, inclusive spaces give a platform to important stories and help break down stigma. Whether it’s designing a campaign, sharing advice, or interviewing someone with a powerful story, my work now centers around making others feel seen and less alone.
Creating open, judgment-free communities is at the heart of what I do. When we raise awareness by sharing real stories, we make people feel understood and less alone. And often, it’s the smallest things like a piece of advice or a meaningful message, that offer the most comfort and reassurance and a sense of connection.
🌈 Looking Ahead
With growing awareness and accessibility slowly becoming implemented in places, I'm hopeful for the future for the disabled community. It’s also hopeful to see disabilities being represented more in media and on TV, along with the continuous improvements in technology and adaptations, changes that are positively transforming so many lives. As more voices are heard, individuals are supported and welcoming communities are made, a better future can be built.
I’m excited for the future with what I will achieve, and the opportunities ahead.
We’re so proud to share her story and can’t wait to see all the amazing things she’ll continue to do. Please give her a follow @Ellamay.bts.
And Ella, keep shining - you’re changing the world, one step (and sparkle) at a time. 💚✨
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