My previous experience going into hospital was that you would get better. But then suddenly I wasn’t going to get better. That was really difficult.
In July 2020, Phillipa Wright was out for one of her regular rides in the Cheshire countryside. Horses and animals have always been a massive part of Phillipa’s life. However, this ride would be like no other. In a freak accident, Phillipa was thrown over the front of her pony with immense force, resulting in a life changing high-level incomplete spinal cord injury.
Phillipa remained conscious and responsive as she was rushed to hospital by helicopter. It was there talking to staff that the severity of what had happened began to set in. She had no sensation below the neck. But Phillipa remained determined as she began her rehabilitation journey, even with the significant added pressure of the oncoming pandemic. Through hard work and using remarkable technology, Phillipa started to regain limited hand and arm function. This meant she could achieve a major goal of being able to use a motorised chair using hand controls.
As meetings became possible again, Phillipa was able to host a visit from SIA Support Coordinator, David Eastham. The support network team all have lived experience of spinal cord injury themselves, and so are able to offer advice based on real lived experience. For Phillipa, it was a breath of fresh air to have someone who understood.
Not only does having a spinal cord injury make coordinators like David uniquely qualified to show understanding and offer advice, but they are also often the front line in introducing people to a wider network of available support. When Phillipa was struggling to access appropriate care funding, David introduced her to our advocacy team who fought on Phillipa’s behalf. Philippa was also introduced to our clinical specialist team who were able to offer expert advice and worked with her to create a free Emergency Care Plan. This plan is potentially lifesaving and means patients can concentrate on getting better if they are admitted to hospital, knowing that their clinical needs will be met.
Now approaching four years since sustaining her injury, Phillipa is keen to redefine herself and look for more life experiences that she can enjoy, like travelling. Over the past year, she has been a regular attendee at our community group meetings in the North West, hosted by Dave and other SIA volunteers. The groups are open to anyone affected by spinal cord injury. Being able to go along, socialise, and share experiences with others who can relate to spinal cord injury is something Phillipa has found incredibly liberating.
I’m going along to meet a group of friends. Friends that understand and don’t feel awkward
The groups have had such a profound impact on Phillipa that she is now considering becoming an SIA volunteer herself. It’s amazing to hear the journey that Philippa has been on, from a life changing injury to now looking to use that experience to help others. It is so vital to be able to reach more people like Phillipa to be able to introduce them to the wide range of services offered by SIA and our wider network.
Please do give generously this evening. With your support, we can help more people like Phillipa to live fulfilled lives.
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