At just 20 years old, Megan Dixon’s life took an unimaginable turn when she went to the hospital for what should have been routine tests. What followed was two years trapped in a silent, motionless body—paralyzed from the neck down, blind, and unable to speak.
From her home in Bath, Megan had been experiencing frequent visual blackouts. Initially attributing them to stress, she did not suspect a serious condition until she struggled to form a single sentence. Doctors suspected a stroke, but instead of a quick recovery, Megan fell into a two-year coma.
When she finally woke, she was confronted with the grim reality of functional neurological disorder (FND), a complex condition affecting thousands in the UK annually. Unable to move or communicate, Megan describes the experience as “being trapped in my own body—a prison sentence.”
READ MORE: Bristol Airport Launches Alembic: A World Tapas Restaurant with Cocktails and Sharing Boards
READ MORE: Does David Beckham Deserve a Knighthood? A Debate on Honouring Celebrities
Now residing in Peterborough, Megan has undergone intensive therapy to regain some abilities. She can speak, open her eyes, and control small movements. Despite significant progress, doctors have cautioned that a full recovery is unlikely.
Once an active hockey and netball player, Megan’s legs suddenly gave way, marking the start of her decline. Battling up to 100 seizures a day at her worst, she has since reduced the frequency to around 15.
Her strength extends beyond therapy; Megan has moved in with her boyfriend Oli, and plans to pursue a nail technician course in college. She courageously shares her story on social media to raise awareness and dismantle misinformation surrounding FND.
Though surgery to straighten her knees could relieve debilitating pain, Megan has faced rejection from multiple surgeons due to the rarity and complexity of her condition. Yet, she remains resolute:
“Every small victory—from moving a finger, to speaking a word, or surviving a tough day—is worth celebrating. Progress isn’t always linear, and setbacks don’t erase how far I have come. I hold onto hope because even on the hardest days, I am still moving forward.”
Megan’s story is a powerful reminder of resilience in the face of despair and the ongoing battle to regain a life that was once taken for granted.