Shropshire musicians join forces for singer-songwriter Nikki Rous
Musicians from across Shropshire have rallied together for a local singer-songwriter after she had urgent spinal surgery.
Shrewsbury venue Albert’s Shed hosted ‘RouStock’, a day of live performances to raise money for Nikki Rous as she recovers.
Well-known artists such as Michaela Wylde and Tony Stanton took part, as did newcomers like Here Casino and Effervescent, and more than £500 was raised throughout the day.
A champion of the original music circuit, Nikki has supported many up and coming artists over the years and hosts the weekly 'Songwriters Showcase', a popular event for local musicians held at Albert’s Shed.
David Gregg, of Albert’s Shed, said: "Nikki is someone very dear to us here, she is a big part of the local scene.
"She's recently been diagnosed with a rare genetic disorder, Ehlers-Danlos Syndrome and then she had to undergo urgent surgery on her spine for a completely separate issue.
"Firstly we aim to raise funds to help directly as she is a completely self-employed musician who is unable to work at the moment, but secondly to raise awareness of the condition EDS."
EDS is a disease that weakens the connective tissues of the body, for which there is no cure.
Nikki’s diagnosis came after many years of misdiagnoses, chronic pain and health complications.
She suffered several ruptured discs, one of which caused severe nerve compression and nerve damage, rendering her practically immobile and leaving her needing an urgent operation on her spine.
Rous, who is now recovering from the operation said: "I can't thank all the performers and people involved enough for taking their time to put on this event.
"And thank you to all the people who came down and showed their support to the wonderful musical talent we have here in Shropshire”.
For more information on Nikki Rous and her condition, or to donate visit https://albertsshed.co.uk
