Navigating the Functional Neurological Disorder (FND) labyrinth alongside you.
Welcome, Everyone! - This is Your Guide to Our Brand New Website!
Picture this: Waking up each day in a world where uncertainty reigns, your body staging a rebellion you never signed up for. This has been my reality for seven years, a journey marked by the shadows of non-epileptic seizures, immense anguish as my movement became more and more restricted, off the chart chronic pain, catatonia, debilitating depression and the paralysing grip of despair. In 2016, my world shattered, and I found myself sinking into a bottomless pit. Seeking medical help for something none of us even heard of, was the ultimate lifetime marathon. Each doctor's visit was filled with great apprehension and trepidation. This is the narrative for so many people in the FND community.
Little did I know that a lifeline awaited me, hidden in the words of Dr. Bessel van der Kolk and his book, 'The Body Keeps the Score'. 'Neuroplasticity' became my beacon of hope, sparking a healing journey that transformed my perspective of life. The yearning for knowledge became insatiable. This was my desperate attempt to navigate a world where 'conversion disorder' was spoken of in hushed tones.
'As the great physiologist Walter Cannon suggested, there is a wisdom in our bodies...I hope people can align with the inner wisdom we all posess.' - Gabor Maté
I'm Audrey Bart, navigating the FND labyrinth alongside you.
The road to healing is paved with challenges, and not everyone embarks on this journey with the resources they need. Join me as we unravel the complexities of FND, and in turn empower ourselves with know-how skills to heal.
Embrace the synergy for holistic therapeutic interventions!
What can you expect of our website and blogs?
Delve into a dynamic array of resources, from captivating films and documentaries to enlightening podcasts, self-help books, autobiographies, vibrant social media channels, and insightful blog posts. These play a pivotal role in educating people about chronic illness, casting a spotlight on conditions like functional neurological disorder (FND).
Our website shares 'Self-help' resources based on the dual therapy approach of 'Top-Down' (thoughts and beliefs, shaping emotions and behaviors) and 'Bottom-Up' (sensory experiences, ascending through specific symptoms to transform higher-level cognitive functions). Research is a key factor in mapping out the different complexities of FND. We'll take a dive into what the scientific data proves, in South Africa and abroad. Take a look at our 'Research' page to learn more.
If you're looking for a safe space to build resilience, Join our support group held every Tuesday, 7 to 8pm. Drop us a message, to learn more.
We hope that you find immense value from our content. Please feel free to share your thoughts and insights with us via email: fndwhatnow@gmail.com OR cell: +27 076 291 3442.
We would love to hear from you!
It's important to note that these offerings are not a substitute for professional medical advice, diagnosis, treatment, or any other healthcare interventions - they're the mosaic of my exploration. Please consult your healthcare provider before changing your treatment plan and or medication.
Online References:
The Body Keeps the Score -
When the Body Says No -
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