Kiersten's fundraiser for VIDA Sheffield

At the age of 26, my life took an unexpected turn when I started experiencing seizures. These seizures were not just ordinary ones; they were so severe that I would end up breaking bones in my face and causing serious harm to myself. It was a terrifying situation, as these seizures had the potential to even take my life.
The doctors suspected epilepsy and suggested that I start taking a medication called lemotrogine. However, I decided to refuse this treatment. It was a difficult choice to make, especially considering that I didn't have a confirmed diagnosis at that point. The idea of taking strong, mind-altering drugs that could potentially harm my life was not something I was willing to do.
Over three years, battling with neurologists, I lost my driver's license, causing fear and isolation. Fortunately, my cousin recognised the state of fear that had taken over my mind. She took me to the doctor and insisted that they see me. It was through this serendipitous encounter that I was introduced to an IAPTS worker specializing in NAAD disorder, leading me to VIDA Sheffield in 2018. Through free services like group therapy, CBT, psychotherapy, and one-on-one sessions, I unraveled trauma, gaining vital emotional tools for healing.
Without VIDA Sheffields FREE SERVICE, I genuinely believe I wouldn't be here today, let alone exploring Botswana and pursuing my late-discovered passion for horseback riding, mastering terrains for happiness and safety. The work that VIDA Sheffield does is so powerful and effective that it breaks my heart to think that this service might have to shut down completely due to a lack of funding, considering my story is one of many.
Now equipped with skills, I'm pursuing personal goals and fundraising for this remarkable cause. The support from VIDA Sheffield shaped me into a resilient, confident, and emotionally stable individual. Join me in supporting this cause, spreading positivity, and ensuring the continuation of this impactful service!