Wolverhampton woman undergoes life-changing neurological treatment in U.S. after years of suffering from rare digestive disorder

Gastroparesis is a chronic illness that affects the stomach muscles and prevents proper digestion. In Talia’s case, her stomach no longer functions, meaning she must be fed through a tube that delivers a specially formulated nutritional mix directly into her small intestine. This condition has led to other health issues which Talia currently suffers from including CRPS (Complex Regional Pain Syndrome) and POTS (Postural Orthostatic Tachycardia Syndrome).

Her journey began in January 2022, when she contracted a virus that triggered the onset of her condition. With limited awareness and resources for Gastroparesis within the NHS, Talia struggled to obtain a diagnosis. Eventually, she was referred to Dr. Shidrawi, one of the UK’s leading specialists in the field. Based in London, he runs the country’s only dedicated Gastroparesis clinic and has been managing Talia’s care for the past three years.

Despite intensive efforts, there is currently no known cure for Gastroparesis. In June 2024, Talia underwent surgery to implant a gastric pacemaker — a device similar to a heart pacemaker that delivers electrical pulses to stimulate stomach muscles. Unfortunately, the device had little effect, and Talia remains unable to digest food in the normal way.

In search of hope, Talia turned to the Spero Clinic, which offers cutting-edge neurological rehabilitation not available anywhere else in the world. The clinic specialises in treating complex conditions such as CRPS (Complex Regional Pain Syndrome), Long COVID, POTS (Postural Orthostatic Tachycardia Syndrome), and Gastroparesis through a non-invasive, drug-free approach focused on restoring optimal nervous system function.

The Spero Clinic accepts only around 55 patients at a time and provides intensive, personalised treatment over a minimum 14-week period, with daily sessions from Monday through Thursday. Patients often report an average of 84% improvement in mobility, cognition, and pain management following treatment.

Talia arrived at the clinic on June 2 and is now in her third week of therapy. She is accompanied by her father, Peter Sinnott, who has taken time away from work to support her throughout the process. Together, they have had to cover not only the high cost of treatment — approximately $3,500 (£2,650) per week — but also the expense of renting accommodation and a vehicle in the U.S.

To help fund this life-changing opportunity, Talia launched a GoFundMe campaign at gofund.me/428f559c. Thanks to the generosity of friends, family, and supporters, she has raised £144,000 towards her £180,000 goal. Much of this amount has already been used to cover three years of private treatment in London. The remaining funds are urgently needed to ensure she can complete the intensive programme in Arkansas and give herself the best possible chance at recovery.

“This treatment gives me real hope for the first time in years,” said Talia. “It’s been a long and painful journey, but I’m determined to fight for my health and regain my life.”