A mother recounts the terrifying experience of her daughter becoming paralyzed from the neck down due to a virus. Ivy Amos, residing in Bath with her family, had always been healthy until she unexpectedly fell ill with symptoms that puzzled her parents.
Ivy’s health ordeal started at the age of eight in February 2024 when she was diagnosed with viral meningitis after experiencing a severe seizure at home. Following a week-long hospital stay, she was discharged but soon developed transverse myelitis, a rare condition involving spinal cord inflammation that led to near-complete paralysis.
Despite being paralyzed initially, Ivy underwent intensive care treatment for several weeks, including ventilation and a tracheostomy. Gradually, with physiotherapy, she regained some upper body movement but still struggled with leg mobility.
After transitioning to a specialized clinic, Ivy received ongoing rehabilitation from Neurokinex, a non-profit organization focusing on paralysis recovery. Through Neurokinex’s Step Up Scheme, Ivy accessed free sessions and now participates in regular activities to enhance her mobility.
Today, Ivy, with the aid of a frame, can walk and has returned to school. Her progress, largely attributed to Neurokinex’s support, has given her and her family hope for continued improvement. To assist others in similar situations, Ivy is partaking in the Neurokinex Step Up challenge, aiming to raise funds for free clinic sessions.
The challenge, called #TopBinsSmallWins, encourages participants to film trick shots into bins, nominate friends, and donate to the cause. The target fundraising goal is £50,000 to enable more individuals to benefit from Neurokinex’s services. For further details on the challenge and donations, visit neurokinex.org/top-bins-small-wins/.