After a “life-changing” horse riding accident, 35-year-old Megan Field found herself paralysed and was informed that she would never walk again.
The accident, which occurred in May 2023, resulted in severe damage to Megan’s spinal cord, leading to paralysis in her lower body. Megan describes the experience, stating, “It was like a light going out, where the connection to that part of my body just went. I thought ‘I can’t feel my legs or anything below the chest, nothing’.”
Following surgery, Megan regained feeling in one of her legs and was subsequently transferred to Salisbury Hospital’s Duke of Cornwall Spinal Treatment Centre to commence her rehabilitation.
READ MORE: Serious Crash Halts M4 Traffic Near Swindon
READ MORE: Police Crack Down on Christmas Crime in Chippenham
Megan was among the early beneficiaries of the £29,000 LiteGait, a mobile hoist system funded by the Stars Appeal. This revolutionary equipment enabled her to practice and regain strength and confidence in walking.
Four months after the accident, Megan was able to leave the Spinal Treatment Centre with the support of her crutches and continues her recovery at home.
“This injury has completely changed my life, occurring within a split second. I woke up in the morning able to walk and went to bed that night paralysed. The LiteGait and the physios have been crucial in my rehabilitation. As a result, I am beginning to walk again. Initially, I was told I would never walk again,” Megan shares.
The progress Megan achieved would have been significantly delayed without the LiteGait. The equipment provided by the Stars Appeal played a vital role in her daily life during her time in the Spinal Unit. Megan expresses her gratitude to the Stars Appeal supporters, acknowledging their contribution to her ability to walk again.
Physiotherapist Elly Marchant, who supported Megan’s rehabilitation, emphasizes the empowering nature of the LiteGait in patient recovery and expresses gratitude to the generous supporters of the Stars Appeal.
Throughout her time at the Spinal Centre, Megan also availed the Stars Appeal-funded Wi-Fi and other facilities, including specialized trainer bikes, the anti-gravity treadmill, adjustable dining tables, and the Silver Lounge, offering a quiet space and opportunities for social interaction.
Megan highlights the significance of the free Wi-Fi during her stay, citing its role in helping patients stay connected with the outside world during their extended hospital stays. Additionally, she found solace in the Silver Room, using it as a retreat from the ward and a place for socializing in the evenings.
The Stars Appeal, Salisbury Hospital’s Charity, not only facilitates the availability of essential equipment but also organizes various social events and day trips for spinal injury patients, creating a supportive and engaging environment.
To support the Stars Appeal and learn more about their initiatives, visit www.starsappeal.org/our-work/spinal-centre.