I’d been a children’s nursing student for six months when a friend invited me to a fun day that was raising awareness of kabuki syndrome, a rare genetic condition. I thought it would enhance my learning, so I went along. It was held at a park, and there was an inflatable slide. Unfortunately, I fell from the bottom, landing on the base of my spine.
I was rushed to hospital, where it became obvious that something was wrong. After treatment, including a couple of weeks of bed rest, I was finally allowed home. But despite physiotherapy, I was feeling more and more tired and the pain was getting worse, rather than improving. I’d suffered a fractured spine and was eventually diagnosed with functional neurological disorder (FND), which has a range of symptoms including limb weakness, paralysis, seizures, walking difficulties, spasms and twitching.
I'd worked so hard to get there
It took me a long time to admit I wouldn’t be able to return to my nursing degree. I’d worked so hard to get there. My eldest daughter had a lot of medical problems when she was born and had to stay in hospital. I saw then how the nurses helped us as parents in every aspect, providing family-centred care, and it inspired me. But back then I didn’t have the confidence.
In 2014, I finally decided to go back to college, do my GCSEs and apply. I wanted to go to Birmingham City University more than anything. I cried when I got an interview and cried again when they offered me a place. I was so happy and proud to be able to go there.
After the accident, the university agreed to delay my return for as long as possible. Although I could see my body was failing me and I wasn’t getting any better, I wasn’t prepared to hand in the towel. I wasn’t mentally able to do it. But because I wouldn’t abandon my course, it created problems getting any benefits and I had to find a way of paying the bills. The university told me about various grants I could get from nursing charities, including the RCN’s Lamplight Support Service.
Peace of mind
Fortunately, I’d joined the RCN at the induction to my course. I thought it would give me peace of mind just in case I ever needed it. I’m so glad I did. When the advisors at Lamplight heard my story, they suggested I speak to someone at RCN Law. I felt I had nothing to lose. It meant a lot to me that they immediately understood how disabling FND can be. It was a relief someone was listening and I was being heard.
From the beginning, the lawyers warned me it would be a complex case, but I was confident they had everything in hand.
It was a relief someone was listening
It took around four-and-a-half years to finally reach a resolution. In the end, it was settled out of court. When everything was finally agreed in April 2021, it felt like a massive cloud had been lifted. I almost couldn’t believe it was over. It has made such a difference to my life.
Before the accident, I used to be an outdoors type person who was very active, cycling and going to the gym. The financial settlement means I’m able to buy an all-terrain motorised hybrid wheelchair that will help me do normal things I haven’t been able to do in such a long time, for example, going on the beach or camping. It means I’ll have some independence. I can also buy a car that will suit all my family, plus have room for my wheelchair.
For me, it’s never been about the money, but being able to have the equipment and care I need, as no one knows how the future will pan out. While this makes day-to-day living easier, nothing will ever give me my old life back again.
RCN Lamplight and RCN Law have both been amazing and I’m so grateful. When I joined the RCN, I never thought for one minute that it would cover all of this. I hope other students realise the value of paying their £10 annual fee. If something unfortunate ever happens, as a member of the RCN you’re looked after.
Find out more
As an RCN member you’re eligible for legal advice and representation for injuries sustained due to the fault of someone else. More than £3m compensation has been secured for members through RCN Law in the past year.
Regarding Kerry’s case, allegations of fault included a failure to supervise the slide’s operation; permitting the slide to be used in unsafe conditions; and not installing suitable impact matting at its base.
Find out more about personal injury claims for members.
Read more information on RCN Lamplight Support Services.