Supporting you to live your best life
Hello I’m Claire,
Since my CES diagnosis in September 2010 I have been committed to changing outcomes for others affected by Cauda Equina Syndrome, wherever they may live.
Through lived experience, I am aware of the daily battles people face in the first few months after surgery and beyond. Everything is overwhelming as you adjust to the news that your life has changed dramatically. If not forever, at least for the foreseeable future.
In a society where people suffering from chronic back pain are dismissed as malingerers, and where unconscious bias is rife, I strive to shine a spotlight on Cauda Equina Syndrome and to ensure those affected have the tools to live their best life after injury, moving forward to find happiness and success in the future.
You are here because:
- You don’t know where to turn, or who to talk to.
- You have questions and are struggling to find the answers.
- You want to connect with people who understand first hand.
- You support CES patients and want to know more.
I know from my own experience, how hard it is once you are discharged from hospital following surgery. Truly useful information is hard to find anywhere. I am here to help you find the answers you need and signpost you to services that can help. I want to share the experience and knowledge I have gained over the many years I have been campaigning to improve outcomes. Connecting with others who have a lived experience is vital, and support amongst your peers will help you in many more ways than you can imagine.
“I have worked with Claire for a number of years now on films for Cauda Equina Champions Charity. Claire is so lovely to work with, has great communication and amazing ideas.”
Sophie Heppell
Co-Founder and Creative Director at North Film Studios“Claire was a patient research partner for developing a core outcome set for Cauda Equina Syndrome. This was an international research effort to identify the most important outcomes for patients and healthcare professionals in future research studies led by Dr Srikandarajah at The Walton Centre in Liverpool, UK.”
Nisaharan Srikandarajah FRCS(SN) PhD
Clinical Spine Fellow, Toronto Western Hospital“Claire Thornber is a strong, intelligent woman who sees solutions where others see problems. I have been her colleague in two capacities; the first as her employee and secondly as her partner in a co-production project between two charities.”