Laura’s story
My name is Laura ,
Before November 2022, my body was already starting to fail me, and nobody could explain why. I was constantly being prescribed multiple antibiotics, I had lost feeling in one of my legs, I kept spacing out, and I was experiencing tremors that made everyday life difficult. Deep down, I knew something wasn’t right, but despite countless worries and symptoms, I still had no real answers.
Then everything changed. In November 2022, what started as seizures quickly escalated into 45 seizures within 24 hours. It was terrifying for me and for everyone around me. An ambulance was called, and I was rushed into hospital and placed into resuscitation, surrounded by wires and machines while doctors tried to figure out what was happening to me. Nobody seemed to have answers, and the fear of the unknown made the entire experience even more traumatic.
When I finally saw a neurologist, I hoped I would get support, guidance, and reassurance. Instead, I was left feeling dismissed. I was handed a leaflet about Functional Neurological Disorder and told that because I was “only 32,” I would grow out of it. Hearing that while my life was falling apart around me was devastating. I didn’t feel understood, and I certainly didn’t feel hopeful.
One of the hardest parts of my journey hasn’t just been the symptoms themselves — it’s been the judgement from others. People questioned me, called me a liar, and said it was all made up. Hearing those things while already struggling mentally and physically was heartbreaking. FND changed my life in ways I never expected, and adjusting to that reality has been incredibly difficult.
But through all of it, my children became my reason to keep fighting. On the days where I felt exhausted, defeated, or misunderstood, they gave me strength. They reminded me that I still had purpose, even during the darkest moments of my journey.
Over time, I’ve started to find support from people who truly understand what living with FND is like. Having a supportive group around me has made such a difference. For the first time, I feel like I’m beginning to understand my condition instead of being afraid of it. I’m still learning, still growing, and still facing challenges, but I’m no longer facing them alone.
My journey with FND hasn’t been easy, but it has shown me how strong I really am. Even after being doubted, judged, and knocked down, I’m still here — learning, healing, and continuing to move forward one day at a time.