AN EAST Lancashire woman who is battling a rare neurological disorder has set up a helpline to offer support to other sufferers around the country.

When Claire Kellett slipped a disc in her back in 2010, she was left with a debilitating syndrome called cauda equina that currently affects one in one million people across the UK.

The 41-year-old has since suffered with mobility issues and constant chronic pain because of the trauma to her spinal cord and nerve endings.

“My life changed and I was left feeling isolated without any support and nobody really to turn to.

“I wanted to see who was going through the same thing, but I found that there was no support at all,” said Claire.

After researching about cauda equina, the mum-of-two, who lives with her husband Nigel in Billington, decided to set up a support network. She has now launched a free, 24-hour care-line from her home and is due to have a live website within the next few weeks.

“My research has led to me receiving some fantastic support and after talking to people they also think it’s important to raise awareness too. At the moment I am mobile and I can drive, but a lot of people can end up in wheelchairs.

“And because things have changed you need the emotional support too,” she said.

Before her diagnosis, Claire was always active and had her own mobile cleaning business, Scrubbers and Co, which she has now passed over to her 21-year-old daughter.

“My life has completely changed, and although I have had some fantastic support, I have really had to support myself at times.

“Now I have built up a network with people, who can in the future, answer the calls and offer advice around the clock.

“I will be able to allocate support amongst the peer support service group, and once the website is live then things should really take off.”

  • If you have been affected by cauda equina call the support line 03335 777113.