Hi, my name is rosebud31563! Terrified that my life is now over, any advice?

rosebud31563
rosebud31563 Community Member Posts: 2 Listener
edited April 2025 in Start here and say hello

Hi just had 2 operations in 6 days been diagnosed with cauda equina been in hospital salford for 3.5 weeks and still on acute neuro ward, in a wheelchair left leg dead, incontinence, having to take laxatives to empty bowels, 61years old and absolutely terrified that my life is now over. I am scared frightened and so weepy.

Comments

  • noonebelieves
    noonebelieves Community Member Posts: 677 Championing
    https://forum.scope.org.uk/discussion/132549/hi-my-name-is-rosebud31563

    Hi @rosebud31563,

    A very warm welcome to this lovely and friendly Scope community. I’m so sorry to hear that you’re going through such a challenging time following your Cauda Equina diagnosis . It’s completely understandable to feel scared and emotional. Please know that you’re not alone, and this is a safe and supportive space where many people understand how tough sudden health changes can feel. I’m sure someone on this forum may have faced similar challenges and might be able to share their experiences with you.

    It sounds like you’re being well looked after in Salford hospital, and I hope the Neurosurgery team there is doing all they can to help ease your symptoms and support your recovery. Are there any family members or friends who are able to visit or stay in touch? Also, do you have access to any pastoral care(Chaplaincy/PALS )or emotional support on the ward? You might also be able to access liaison psychiatry support in the hospital if your mental health symptoms feel particularly difficult or overwhelming.If you’re struggling, you can mention this to the staff on the acute neuro ward, and they should be able to refer you to the appropriate services .This might be of help to you.

    Please take each day as it comes and be gentle with yourself -just reaching out here shows great strength. If there’s anything you’d like to share or ask, we’re all here to support you.

    Wishing you comfort and strength during this difficult time 🤗

  • rosebud31563
    rosebud31563 Community Member Posts: 2 Listener

    Thank you so much for your kind words of support and that other people have experienced this condition. Still very overwhelmed and shocked and scared. From going from an able bodied person who was never ill always worked to a wheelchair has frightened me to death. My daughter found this forum and sent me the link which i am grateful for and thankyou for replying to my post. Kind regards Sharon xxx

  • Rosie_Scope
    Rosie_Scope Posts: 9,900 Scope online community team

    Hi @rosebud31563, welcome to the community. I'm really sorry to hear you've been in hospital and everything has been so difficult lately, that sounds really overwhelming. As others have so beautifully put, it's a huge adjustment dealing with a new health issue so please don't feel like you have to be strong about things all the time. When things settle, it may be worth reaching out for some mental health support or asking your health professionals about counselling as it must have been a big shock for you.

    While we won't all have the same experiences on the community, many of us know what it's like to go through a sudden change and deal with the daily struggles of a health issue. You're definitely not alone here, and I hope the community can offer some support and friendship through all that you're dealing with.

    I hope things start feeling easier soon ❤️

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