Facing fears for CRPS – Izzy’s Fundraising story

Suspended 328 ft above the water in open air, 22-year-old Izzy bravely abseiled down Portsmouth's Spinnaker Tower to raise funds and awareness for Complex Regional Pain Syndrome (CRPS). Izzy’s mum developed the little-known condition when Izzy was four.

“When my mum was first diagnosed, Burning Nights CRPS Support was a really valuable source of information and support for her. They helped her understand the condition and reassured her that she wasn’t alone. Knowing there was a charity dedicated to supporting people with CRPS made a difficult time a little easier, which is why I wanted to give something back.”
 

The big day

Before the big descent, Izzy says, “I was really nervous… especially because I’m scared of heights. The nerves never really settled while I was doing it – but it was 100% worth it. Knowing that I was raising money and awareness for Burning Nights CRPS Support kept me going, and finishing it gave me such a sense of achievement.”

Izzy says she likes to push herself out of her comfort zone and take on high-adrenaline challenges – like bungee jumping and skydiving, which she ticked off in the same year as the abseil. “There’s something really rewarding about doing something that scares you and proving to yourself that you can do it, especially when it’s all for a good cause.”

On the day of the abseil, Izzy felt lucky to have her loved ones waiting for her down on the quay. “Having them there cheering me on made a huge difference and gave me that extra bit of confidence before I started.”

Fundraising challenges

One of the biggest challenges she faced when fundraising was reaching as many people as possible, but friends, family and colleagues all chipped in to support Izzy’s mission. She explained to them why she was keen to do the abseil and shared her fundraising link on social media. “I encouraged them by mentioning it was peer pressure, so if they didn’t [donate], I wouldn’t do it! ” 

Izzy originally hoped to raise £100 for Burning Nights CRPS but flew past her target and raised more than double. “Reaching and exceeding my fundraising goal was an amazing feeling. It was great knowing the money would help Burning Nights continue supporting people living with CRPS.”

As for the abseil itself: “The hardest part was taking that first step over the edge knowing I’m scared of heights!”

Izzy frequently sees how little awareness there is of the condition, and how it affects her mum and family. She says: “Raising awareness helps people better understand the challenges those living with CRPS face every day, and hopefully it can lead to earlier diagnosis, better support and more research. If sharing my experience helps even one person, then it’s worth it.”

After completing Portsmouth's Spinnaker Tower abseil and making it back to solid ground, the 22-year-old felt “so, so proud” of her achievement. 

How did she celebrate? “The best way I know how – with a nice strong drink with my friends and family who came to watch!” 

Thank you so much, Izzy, for taking on this challenge and fundraising for Burning Nights CRPS Support.

Fundraisers like this one directly help us support people affected by CRPS through our resources and support channels. 

Feeling inspired and want to make a difference? Check out our upcoming events or organise your own fundraiser with help from our free fundraising pack.