A Solihull mother of two, Sarah Lewis, has shared her journey of adapting to life with Functional Neurological Disorder (FND), a condition diagnosed in 2023 that significantly altered her daily existence. At 43, Lewis began experiencing symptoms such as persistent migraines, difficulty walking, pins and needles, and tremors, which rapidly progressed to speech problems and the inability to walk unassisted. Reflecting on the initial period, Lewis described it as the 'steepest of learning curves', grappling with unforeseen daily challenges.
Now 46 and using a wheelchair, Lewis has channelled her energy into a new venture: a cake business named Cakey Blinders. The inspiration for the business, launched in October 2025, partly stemmed from a desire to provide her 11-year-old home-educated son with practical experience in marketing and business operations. Her family actively supports the enterprise, assisting with everything from baking to customer service at market stalls and social media photography. Lewis finds baking to be a therapeutic escape, allowing her to focus entirely on the creative process.
Lewis revealed that her initial response to the diagnosis was an intense focus on finding a cure, which she admits drove her 'crazy' and prevented her from 'living properly'. This realisation prompted a significant shift in her perspective. She now prioritises a positive mindset, asserting that without it, the demanding nature of FND, particularly fatigue, would make daily activities impossible. Her changed outlook has enabled her to overcome the fear of going outside, fostering resilience and a determination to move forward despite setbacks.
Despite the profound impact of FND, Lewis and her family have embraced new experiences, travelling to destinations such as Egypt, Disneyland Paris, and Istanbul for the UEFA Europa League final. She emphasises the importance of not letting the condition diminish her quality of life, stating that FND has 'taken enough from me'. The challenges, she notes, have unexpectedly brought her family closer, making them cherish their time together even more. Lewis is committed to ensuring her children create 'best memories', adapting family activities to accommodate her condition.
Functional Neurological Disorder is a condition where the brain struggles to send and receive signals correctly, leading to a range of physical, sensory, or cognitive symptoms. The NHS states that while many people experience short-lived symptoms, for others, they can persist for months or years and be significantly disabling. Treatment options typically include psychotherapy, physiotherapy, or occupational therapy, with some individuals experiencing complete resolution of symptoms. However, others may live with disabling symptoms for extended periods, though gradual improvement can often be expected with the right therapeutic approach.
Lewis's story highlights a remarkable journey of resilience and adaptation in the face of a challenging neurological condition, demonstrating how a shift in mindset and purposeful activity can lead to a fulfilling life despite significant health obstacles.