Sarah’s participation in the Pathfinder2 trial has transformed her daily life and restored her confidence.
Sarah Wilson’s life changed in an instant in September 2018 after a riding accident on the family farm. Despite wearing protection, she broke her neck in the one-inch gap between the bottom of her hat and the top of her body protector, leaving her instantly paralysed from the chest down.
Mum to three children aged one, four and six at the time she said: “I was conscious the whole time but just couldn’t move. It was the most surreal and frightening experience.”
Sarah was airlifted to Addenbrooks Hospital and spent two months in the Specialist Neuro Intensive Care Unit before being transferred to Stoke Mandeville Spinal Injuries Unit for the next 16 months, returning to the family farm the day before the first Covid lockdown.
During the groundbreaking trial Sarah greatly improved her upper body strength, triceps function, core balance, hand grip and dexterity. “I wanted to be able to drink a hot drink from a normal cup without a straw, to be on my own and able to have a cuppa and that’s what happened.”
Today Sarah can manage a knife and fork and plate and can use her computer – however slowly – which has made a huge difference.
“I just wish everyone could have access to this therapy”
Sarah
After her accident Sarah and her family and friends faced the reality and challenges of a new life but taking part in the trial helped them all to face the future.
“I just had no idea what life with a spinal cord injury would be like or the knock-on effects on everyone around me. But we have all adapted. I focus on running the farm with a great team and, thanks to the trial and continuing with my active rehab, I’ve definitely more confidence to try new things and for the future. I just wish everyone could have access to this therapy.”
Watch Sarah's video
Sarah talks about her participation in the Pathfinder2 Trial.
