High Peak charity boss and double amputee named Inspirational Woman of the Year 2023

Victoria Abbott Flemming and husband Michael at the Inspirational Woman of the Year awards. Submitted photo

Victoria’s career of being a barrister and then a law lecturer all changed when she fell down the stairs and she was left with pain that would not go away.She was initially treated with anti-inflammatory drugs after her legs tripled in size in just minutes and her skin split open. She described the pain as being ‘covered in boiling oil’ and ‘stabbed in the legs’ and then had seven months of misdiagnosis.

After seeing 39 specialists Victoria was eventually diagnosed with complex regional pain syndrome.

This severe and debilitating condition led to her legs becoming infected and doctors said they needed to amputate.

She said: “I could have very easily said this was my life and just accepted the negative but I was determined to help others and turn my negative into a positive and give me a new focus.”

In 2014 she set up Burning Nights charity which has helped thousands of people receive the help, support and guidance to navigate their own pain journeys.

"We are the only charity which provides counselling and support not just for patients but their families too and I know we have made a difference to people all over the country.”

She also advocates across the UK and worldwide for better understanding and treatment of CRPS.

In 2021 she was awarded MBE from the Queen for her services to charity.

Now she has been named Inspirational Woman of the Year 2023.

She said: “Being nominated alone was just an incredible honour, but actually winning this extremely competitive and highly contended category has left me humbled and grateful.”

Victoria said she had to give a five minute presentation to the judges, which she said left them in tears and this was followed by a vote.

“A huge thank you to whoever nominated me in the first place and for everyone who voted.”

Victoria from Chinley said: “I hope to continue inspiring others, helping them to find their voice and making a positive impact for everyone who has been affected by chronic pain and Complex Regional Pain Syndrome.