Mary

“Approximately 12 years ago, the nerve bed in my right shoulder was damaged during a shoulder replacement operation at the hospital.

A nerve specialist in Harley Street told me that it was highly unlikely that the nerves in my right hand and arm would ever function again. As a result, my arm hung limp down my right side.

A few months later, I watched a segment on BBC South Today about a newly-opened gym specifically designed for disabled people. It was founded by a gentleman whose wife had suffered a stroke.

The gym featured equipment, but none designed for stroke survivors. I was amazed by what I saw on TV and immediately wondered: could this help me regain the use of my arm and hand?

The next day, I visited the gym and immediately signed up for physiotherapy assessment, and from that moment on I began my exercises.

Now, 11 years later, I still attend the gym every Thursday morning without fail - unless I am on holiday or unwell.

Thanks to five machines and a one-arm bicycle designed to restore muscle function, I have successfully rebuilt strength in my arm. I can now use my right arm for about three-quarters of its normal range and have regained enough grip to peel vegetable and whisk an omelette.

I am deeply grateful to the wonderful person who created this gym and found a way to help disabled people like me.”