A FUNDRAISING campaign has been launched for a Steeton woman to undergo life-changing surgery in America.

Catrina Farnell has to lay flat for 22 hours a day because of the excruciating pain caused by her condition, known as cerebrospinal fluid (CSF) leak.

A tear in the protective covering around her spinal cord means fluid is leaking out.

The 29-year-old has been accepted for specialist treatment in Los Angeles from a world authority on the condition, but the operation alone will cost £12,000.

A series of fundraising events has already been staged by family and friends and more are in the pipeline.

And an online page set-up for donations, at gofundme.com/help-catrina-get-her-surgery, has so far coined-in more than £3,600.

The effects of other health issues and the complex nature of the treatment needed mean Catrina's only real hope of success lies across the Atlantic.

A decade ago, while studying dance at Roehampton University in London, she was diagnosed with a degenerative disease.

And five years ago she was found to be suffering from Cauda Equina syndrome, in which nerves at the base of the spinal cord become compressed.

Catrina, a former pupil of Holy Family School in Keighley, has undergone five operations.

Before the CSF struck she could get around in a wheelchair or cover short distances on crutches, but now the crippling pain has left her virtually housebound.

Catrina's mum, Mrs Margaret Farnell, 71, said: "Because of the condition, fluid which supports the brain is leaking out.

"That means her brain sags, which causes excruciating pain.

"Treatments in this country are very hit and miss and we would have to travel around a lot, but Catrina can only leave the house now for medical reasons if it's essential.

"She has to remain laid down – if she's upright it causes the fluid level to drop. She has no life at the moment.

"We sent details of Catrina's case history and scans to Dr Wouter Schievink – a world expert in the field – who said he would be able to help.

"Using a special 'glue', not available in this country, he can seal the Dura membrane. The success rate is very good.

"It would be life-changing for Catrina. It's her best chance of a better life.

"If she can get the leak sorted, she can then concentrate on strengthening her back.

"We've been quoted £12,000 for the surgery but then we'll have flights and accommodation on top of that.

"Catrina wouldn't be fit enough to fly straight back after the operation. She'll need to spend two or three weeks out there."

Mrs Farnell pays tribute to the support shown by people.

"Catrina has a lot of friends and they're all doing their best for her," she said.

"People are tackling Tough Mudder events, marathons and half marathons.

"We're members of Our Lady of Lourdes at Haworth and all the Catholic churches and others are supporting her.

"We are so grateful."

A fundraising tabletop sale is being held at Steeton Methodist Church this Saturday (Feb 25), from 10am to 1pm.

It will include a tombola, book table, cake stall, toys and teddies.

To hire a table, at £10, contact Debbie Wright on 07958 471799.