My name is Annie and I am from the Philippines. My foot drop started when I gave birth with my second daughter last October 14, 2023. I gave birth via cesarean section due to breech presentation. However during the procedure I sustained spinal cord injury when the anaesthesiologist inserted the needle at my back.

The following morning I was no longer able to move my right foot. I tried to walk but I was struggling and had to hold on something to balance myself. The doctors could not tell me exactly about my condition other than, "this is a rare case and we've never encountered anything like this before".

They sent me home handicapped with a newborn. The days felt so long and it seemed that the pain from the injury is becoming worst. I was only able to survive day by day with the painkiller I am taking but once the effectivity of the medicine wears of I can feel the pain again. I even pitied myself for not being able to take care of my baby.

My husband watching me cry from time to time due to to the excruciating pain from the injury brought me to a neurologist and I was advised to undergo physical therapy.

I started the therapy and had many depressed days but I kept working towards my recovery. After months of therapy my mobility aid progressed gradually from wheelchair, to crutches, to walker and to cane.

I stayed home most of the time because I feel embarrassed walking around using a mobility aid. I fear the judgement I would get from other people. I don't think anyone can truly understand the despair this condition causes its victim. It was really a difficult road physically, mentally, emotionally and financially.

During my follow-up with the rehabilitation doctor he wrote me with a prescription for an AFO brace. I went to the hospital where I was fitted for my AFO brace. I could walk a little better while wearing my AFO brace but I still need to use a cane because I struggle walking on stairs.

Last June 2024, the doctor told me to get and EMG-NCV test done to check if my injury had gotten any better and if there is a possibility that I would be walking normally again. Watching the doctors perform the procedure I was sad to see that my right foot is not responding with the electric shock.

When the result came the doctors explained everything and that I have peroneal neuropathy and it is considered permanent partial disability. I left the hospital and did not want to believe that my right foot would not work the same way ever again.

I went home still in the state of in denial and silently crying at night when I am awake. But with the help and support of my family and the people around me I learned to accept the reality that my mobility aid is now an extension of myself. I can finally say I accept and embrace my dropped foot. I am no longer embarrassed walking around wearing my AFO and using my cane. I am still hoping that maybe one day I will walk the way I used too. I know this will not happen, however, it is how I like to feel.

I really hope whoever goes through this keeps a positive mind and remember that you are not alone. Focus on the present for injuries needs time and patience to heal. The pain will soon passed and you will soon be fine.

Lastly, if you made it this far, I just want to thank you for caring enough about foot drop to read my story.

Read Annie’s Story