In 2019, I suffered a severe concussion due to an unfortunate incident. This was not an isolated event; I experienced multiple falls and subsequent concussions over three years. One particular instance left me in a blackout with no memory of the incident. For over a year, I was dependent on crutches until I managed to self-rehabilitate and walk without aids again. In 2022 I was told I have FND and will receive but instead was left in a limbo resulting in me having a seizure which caused a fall in the shower causing me days later needing crutches. Without the help of ACC I got worse and ended up on walker, requiring a commode eventually due to heavy weakness and then finally ended up wheelchair bound as my feet suddenly didn't move. I was told more tests won't be good for me.

I go through seizures, involuntary movements, pain and heavy fatigue as well with FND. There's a whole lot of symptoms for people with FND that should be treated better not shrugged off.

I was put through a lot of grief and stress resulting in my Autistic Spectrum Disorder heightening which resulted with me feeling mentally unwell. I was told my subconscious is causing this and to mainly see a psychologist. My perspective was being told over and over " It's all in my head I need to be positive at all times to walk again". I strongly disagree with this. It is a physical disability and a neurological condition that unfortunately relapses in some. 

Luckily I have a physio now but I had to do it myself no one assisted me because it isn't recognized. I believe alot of people out there don't even know it exists too.

I have underlying conditions and so do others it is not all FND related also..

During this challenging period, instead of receiving the necessary support from ACC (Accident Compensation Corporation), my condition was dismissed by a specialist who labeled it as "mental". This is the harsh reality faced by many individuals diagnosed with Functional Neurological and Movement Disorder (FNMD). Despite its debilitating impact on our lives, FNMD is often misunderstood or misdiagnosed.

FNMD is not 'all in our heads'. It's not merely mental but rather a neurological physical disability that affects countless people worldwide. Yet, we are denied funding and fair treatment due to this misunderstanding.

It's high time we change this narrative. We demand that FNMD be recognized for what it truly is - a neurological physical disability - so that those affected can receive appropriate funding and treatment without prejudice or dismissal.

Let us stand together against this injustice! Sign our petition today to bring about much-needed change for all those living with Functional Neurological and Movement Disorder!

I don't want anyone who could be newly diagnosed to go through the stresses and odded out ever again