I'm Kevin, my friends call me Kev. I'm 49 years young. I'm a self employed knife maker/teacher. I have suffered chronic pain for 30 years following an injury to my lower back and over the last 18 months or so things have become progressively worse. I've been unable to work a full day let alone teach and because of the nature of my injury it's affected me financially and emotionally. I have the opportunity to get major surgery to give me stability and significantly reduce the pain I'm experiencing as well as giving me a new lease on life. I'll be out of action for up to 12 months following as I go through the recovery process. I've never reached out for help but I'm comfortable doing so with this. I injured my back 30 years ago and don't know a life without pain and uncertainty, this operation is an opportunity to start again. Better late than never. Along with the costs associated with the surgery and recovery I'll donate to a local organisation that deals with suicide prevention and mental health services. They helped me a lot and I'd like to give something back. In return I can only offer my sincerest gratitude for your help. I hope this is enough. Regards, Kev