A 19-year-old from Weston-super-Mare has spoken candidly about living with rumination syndrome, a rare condition that makes it difficult for her to keep food down.
Felicity Dickson Boardman first experienced symptoms during her final year at college in December 2025. The situation gradually worsened, culminating in a hospital visit on New Year’s Eve after she vomited blood.
Medical examinations revealed a tear in Felicity’s oesophagus, caused by repeatedly regurgitating undigested food. Doctors diagnosed her with rumination syndrome, a disorder characterised by the involuntary and repeated regurgitation of food, distinct from bulimia as it occurs without conscious effort.
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This condition can be triggered by various factors, including stomach illnesses or changes in medication. It often leads to significant health issues such as weight loss, throat injuries, tooth decay, dehydration, and malnutrition.
Felicity describes having “good days and bad days” and must eat very slowly, avoiding certain foods and hot drinks. Her symptoms often make social activities like dining out challenging and isolating.
When her symptoms intensify, hospital admissions for dehydration become necessary. Felicity has been hospitalised three times in the past year, with stays ranging from nine to sixteen days. Despite these difficulties, she applied to university as an inpatient and was accepted by all institutions she applied to.
Currently deferring her studies due to her health, she plans to begin a music degree at Goldsmiths in 2027, reflecting her passion for the subject.
Felicity is raising funds to consult a neurogastroenterologist specialising in the interaction between the brain and digestive system. While NHS treatments such as breathing exercises and medication have been tried, she hopes private care might provide alternative therapies or surgical options.
Her fundraising efforts have so far raised £1,305 towards a £2,600 goal.
Despite her struggles, Felicity remains ambitious and creative, with interests in music, photography, and fashion. She aspires to graduate and work in the music industry, inspired by artists like Stevie Nicks. Trained as an opera singer, she hopes to perform in folk or rock music bands in the future.
Those wishing to support Felicity can contribute to her fundraiser online.