Carol’s Inspiring Path Back to Walking
A Journey of Strength at Grimsby Health & Wellbeing Centre
When Carol first arrived at Grimsby Health and Wellbeing Centre just over three years ago, she depended on a wheelchair to get around. After a fall at home that left her needing a double hip replacement, her mobility and confidence were shaken.
Today, although she still needs a little help from her husband Jack; an arm to steady her, she walks without any mobility aids and even takes the stairs to reach the gym. It’s a remarkable transformation built on persistence, courage and unwavering support system.
Carol’s progress has been steady and determined. Jack recalls those early days clearly:
“When we first came just over three years ago, Carol was relying on the wheelchair,” he says. “But over time we moved to crutches, then sticks, and now, no sticks at all. She can hold my little finger or walk arm in arm. I’m very proud of her.”
The centre’s equipment has been a crucial part of that journey. Carol started by using the Wellness Hub and the power-assisted exercise equipment for rehabilitation. They have helped her to build strength, mobility and flexibility, and Carol can now independently move around the seated circuit machines with ease.
Carol has progressed to using the main gym upstairs in the leisure centre. She was inspired to start tackling the stairs by another member, Andrew, who has been climbing them himself following a stroke.
One of the biggest milestones came recently when Carol walked on her own for the first time in over three years, in the gym, under the guidance of Jack and her physio Noor from Cora Health. It was a moment neither she nor Jack will forget.
Carol said with a smile: “I was very nervous, but I kept going. I walked the length of the gym floor six times, in fact. Jack kept telling me, ‘You did it!’ And I had. I couldn’t believe it.”
While Carol continues to work on rebuilding her confidence, one constant throughout this journey has been Jack’s unwavering support. Around the centre, he helps her move from place to place, waits patiently during sessions, and celebrates every step forward.
“Sometimes I don’t see the progress,” Jack admits, “because I see her every day. But people tell her she’s doing well – and they’re right. She’s come so far.”
Ian Shorley-Harlow, health improvement coordinator from Lincs Inspire, said:
Over the past 6 months in particular carol has taken big steps forward. The Wellness Hub and gym have given her the foundation to build upon. And her connection with the physio team has truly enabled her to take the next steps forward. They are a delightful couple, extremely dedicated to one another. Carol’s progress has brought a never-ending smile to my face.
Carol added: “We’ve met so many nice people along the way,” she says. “Everyone has been absolutely brilliant.
“I have come on a lot since I’ve been coming here.”
Well done, Carol. We are with you every step of the way and your progress is an inspiration.
More Information
If you’ve been inspired by Carol’s story, find out more about Lincs Inspire’s wellbeing programmes, including Active Forever and the Grimsby Health & Wellbeing Centre’s Wellness Hub.
Active Forever
Alternately, speak to your GP or health professional about a referral, visit Active Forever or phone (01472) 323200.
