Sarah Lewis, a mother from Solihull, initially dismissed her migraines as a result of being too busy. However, her condition deteriorated to the point where she could not walk or speak properly, leading to a diagnosis of Functional Neurological Disorder (FND) in September 2023.
From Migraines to a Life-Changing Diagnosis
Sarah, now 46, experienced episodes of choking, typing nonsense, and losing coordination. After being rushed to Heartlands Hospital, doctors ruled out a stroke and diagnosed FND, a condition where the brain and nervous system fail to communicate effectively. The cause was identified as stress.
“I’m one of those people who just pushes on, but my body intervened and said you need to stop,” Sarah explained. “I went from being a full-time active working mum to not being able to walk and struggling to speak.”
Turning Point: Home Schooling and a New Business
Her son Henry, diagnosed with ADHD, began struggling at school, prompting Sarah to home educate him. A home economics project led to the creation of Cakey Blinders, a cake business named after the Peaky Blinders series. The entire family contributes: Henry helps with design and events, her mother assists with baking, and her husband handles logistics.
“Henry learns well from real-life applications. We do the website together, and he loves it,” Sarah said. “Everyone in the family gets involved.”
Family Support and Personal Growth
Sarah acknowledges the trauma but values the strengthened family bonds. “Everything has changed over the last three years, but in a strange way, I’m glad because we appreciate each other like never before,” she said. Her children, now 17 and 11, have been a source of pride and motivation.
Advice for Others
Sarah advises listening to your body, being kind to yourself, and giving yourself grace. “You have to accept that it’s OK not to do everything all the time,” she emphasized. Her story is part of the Brummie Mummies Kitchen Table Business series, highlighting local entrepreneurs.
For more information, visit the Cakey Blinders website.
