Meet the team.

Gemma founded Cauda Equina Support & Advocacy UK after experiencing first-hand the life-changing impact of Cauda Equina Syndrome. Following multiple episodes of CES and emergency spinal surgeries, she faced many of the challenges thousands continue to live with every day — chronic pain, mobility difficulties, bladder and bowel dysfunction, and the emotional impact of adapting to a very different life.

Throughout her own journey, Gemma became increasingly aware of the lack of support available to many people affected by CES — the isolation, fear, frustration and uncertainty that patients and families often experience after diagnosis and recovery.

Determined to make a difference, she began connecting with others living with CES, sharing experiences, offering support, and helping people access information. What started as a desire to help others grew into a thriving community supporting thousands of people across the UK and beyond.

Today, as Founder, Chair of Trustees and CEO, Gemma leads the charity's vision and oversees strategic development, advocacy work, community support services, the volunteer programme, fundraising and day-to-day operations. She works closely with trustees, volunteers, healthcare professionals and partner organisations to ensure the charity continues to grow and meet the needs of the CES community.

Her vision is simple: a future where every person affected by Cauda Equina Syndrome has access to the support, understanding, information and opportunities they deserve, and where no one has to face their journey alone.

Darren co-founded Cauda Equina Support & Advocacy UK alongside Gemma and plays a vital role in supporting and strengthening the CES community. Through his own lived experience, he understands the physical, emotional and practical challenges that can follow a CES diagnosis. That personal insight drives his commitment to ensuring individuals and families feel heard, supported and never alone.

Since helping establish the charity, Darren has worked to create opportunities for people within the CES community to connect, share experiences and access meaningful support. He believes peer support and community connection play a powerful role in helping people navigate life after diagnosis — reducing isolation and building confidence for the future.

As Events Manager, Darren leads the planning and delivery of fundraising events, awareness campaigns, community gatherings and charity initiatives. He creates inclusive opportunities for people affected by CES to come together, raise awareness, and support the charity's mission.

Alongside his trustee responsibilities, Darren plays an active role in community engagement, volunteer support, peer mentoring and awareness raising — working with the leadership team to develop new projects, strengthen outreach, and keep the voices of people living with CES at the heart of everything we do.

Lewis is responsible for overseeing the charity's financial management — ensuring funds are handled responsibly, transparently and in line with the charity's objectives. His role covers budgeting, financial planning, monitoring income and expenditure, maintaining accurate records, and supporting the preparation of financial reports.

As both a Trustee and Finance Manager, Lewis plays a vital role in safeguarding the charity's financial health and long-term sustainability. He works with the Board of Trustees to ensure resources are allocated effectively, maximising impact while maintaining strong financial governance and accountability.

Lewis supports financial strategies that enable the charity to grow, expand its services, and continue providing support to individuals and families affected by Cauda Equina Syndrome. He oversees fundraising income, monitors financial performance, and ensures the charity remains compliant with its financial and regulatory obligations.

Committed to transparency and responsible stewardship, Lewis helps ensure that every donation, grant and fundraising contribution is used effectively. His attention to detail and dedication to sound financial management provide a strong foundation for the charity's future.