Beth’s story: Returning to work after spinal cord injury
29 September 2026
Meet Beth
- Works as an associate ambulance practitioner
- Sustained a spinal cord injury aged 29, while raising her young son
- Returned to ambulance shifts after receiving support from Back Up’s Vocation service
In January 2025, I hurt my back after twisting awkwardly. I was 29, operating as an associate ambulance practitioner assisting with a paramedic. Initially I thought nothing of it, but over time things started getting worse.
By April I found it difficult to walk, I couldn’t lift my son into his car seat, and I’d become incontinent. I took myself to A&E and was diagnosed with cauda equina syndrome because of severe compression at L3, L4 and L5, requiring two emergency surgeries.
The months that followed were the hardest of my life. I was managing bladder and bowel challenges, chronic pain, and limited access to specialist support. At times I often felt alone and unheard. Luckily, I had my wife, my son, my dog, and an amazing support network to help me through those dark days.
About six months after my surgeries, my neurology team introduced me to Back Up. That’s when things started to change.
During my time in hospital, I had set myself a goal to return to work and complete at least one more ambulance shift. I spoke to Back Up’s Vocation service, and for the first time someone just got it.
They helped me understand what support I was entitled to from work, and it was like a big weight had been lifted.
The team gave me clear guidance on disability legislation and reasonable adjustments, and I was empowered to have a conversation with my managers knowing exactly what needed to be put in place for my return.
I felt able to use my voice confidently and advocate for support at work.
I’m proud to say that I’ve now actually worked a few ambulance shifts alongside taking on a slightly calmer, desk-based role, and the future looks much brighter!
Since getting back to work, my confidence has grown and I’ve unlocked other new opportunities. I even hope to take on a fundraising challenge for Back Up at some point in the future.
My advice to anyone going through something similar is that you are stronger than you know. Sometimes the help you need is right in front of you, other times it’s harder to find.
Either way, you aren’t alone with Back Up. Reach out to those who’ve had similar experiences to you and never give up on yourself.
Read our Impact report 2026
