Becky’s Story: Living with MS

In 2008 whilst living in Leeds I woke up one Sunday morning with my left leg feeling very heavy and numb, initially I thought I had just slept awkwardly. After a couple of weeks things hadn’t improved so I telephoned NHS 111 who advised me to make an emergency appointment with my GP. By this time my left arm had also started to feel numb. I made the appointment and saw a doctor who initially was a little abrupt at me being at an emergency appointment but I guess outwardly I looked extremely healthy. After examining me and carrying out a few tests she told me that she thought I might have Multiple Sclerosis. If I’m honest, I wasn’t entirely sure what MS was but a diagnosis of this magnitude, delivered fairly brutally, was pretty terrifying. I was told to get to Leeds General Infirmary straight away, where a neurologist would be waiting for me. On arrival I had various tests and was booked in for an MRI scan a couple of months later. Eventually I was called back for the MRI results, by which time my symptoms had all but cleared, but was then told by a neurologist that all of the results were consistent with my having relapsing and remitting MS. Initially I was fairly blasé, I had very few symptoms and despite friends and family telling me how sorry they were I wasn’t overly concerned.

I then went onto develop a problem with my eyes, my vision was perfect but the MS was making it feel as if things were moving all of the time, it’s hard to explain as it’s a very strange feeling, this has never cleared up. As I began to realise the seriousness of MS I became scared and started to have panic attacks, the first was while I was driving, It was an awful feeling, I thought I was going to die. I became anxious to the point that I hated even going to the supermarket, on train journeys and struggled socialising; I only felt safe being at home. Incredibly the MS remained fairly stable for three years, which I think was largely due to moving to Northamptonshire and forming a solid base. The only issue really, was the anxiety that I felt.

After going through a previous ectopic pregnancy and a miscarriage my daughter, Isla, was born in April 2011. I was looked after by Northampton General Hospital who were obviously aware of my having MS, they were terrific and monitored me closely. I loved being pregnant, I felt well throughout and finished with a beautiful healthy baby girl. Towards the end of 2012 I went abroad for a winter break to Gran Canaria, the flight out was very early in the morning and with preparing for the holiday and getting up so early I was pretty exhausted by the time we boarded the plane. We arrived to sunshine, checked in and looked around what was a fabulous hotel. I decided to text my parents to let them know we had arrived safely but I had trouble texting, my left hand and arm felt heavy and wouldn’t move normally. I thought it was strange but took no notice. Over the next 24 hours my left leg started to feel heavy and was dragging when walking, I just put it down to tiredness. After 48 Hours I was completely paralysed down my left side. We called for a doctor who thought I’d had a stroke as the left side of my face had dropped as well so I was taken to hospital by ambulance. After many scans it was realised that I hadn’t had a stroke it was the MS. I was given a course of steroids to take and went back to the hotel. Naively, I thought the steroids would work fairly quickly and decided we would stay until the end of the holiday. I was in a wheelchair unable to do anything for myself; My parents flew out but I was ultimately totally dependant upon my then husband. Isla was only 18 months old at the time so I couldn’t even help look after her which broke my heart. I was still in a wheelchair when we returned home.

On my return, I saw a neurologist at Northampton General who explained that there was a very large lesion on my brain, one of the largest he had seen, which was very uncommon. The lesion had caused me to have the severe relapse. He decided to refer me to The John Radcliffe Hospital in Oxford where I initially saw Dr Jacqueline Palace, Consultant Neurologist, who specialises in unusual cases and has a reputation which is quite exceptional. She recommended that I was placed under the care of one of her colleagues Professor Gabe De Luca, Consultant Neurologist. I was recommended to begin taking a disease-modifying drug which would hopefully help reduce the amount of relapses. I was nervous of this as it meant that I would have to inject myself every day. It was also recommended that I begin regular physiotherapy treatment to try to restore some mobility, as I was still wheelchair bound. Despite having been told at Northampton General that it was unlikely I would be able to walk for at least a year or maybe never again, I began to get feeling back in my left leg and arm after a couple of months. It seems this was down to the steroids reducing the lesion on my brain combined with regular physiotherapy. I began to walk again; I cannot put into words how amazing that felt; It was a moment that I will never forget.

My physiotherapist, who visited me at home, suggested that attending The Reach for Health Centre might be good for me. I imagined it as being a ‘gym’, full of fit people and a place I could not have faced in my mindset at that time. My family were keen for me to give it a try so I made an appointment, mainly to keep them happy. I was nervous and conscious of my laboured walking and also that I had to use a walking aid. I had an assessment and was told that a number of people with MS attended the Centre and that they were confident that the team could improve my condition. When I was shown around I was surprised by the friendliness and relaxed atmosphere, the feeling of compassion and care was so evident. The mixture of age and the varied health conditions of those attending took away any feelings of self-consciousness. I started attending once a week in 2013 and now love it so much that I try to come in five times a week.

Physically I am now so much stronger, my walking has improved immensely and I walk without a walking aid. I believe that exercise has to be good for you no matter what condition your health is in and can only help you to overcome the worst of any serious illness and help contribute to keeping it at bay. I also generally feel stronger mentally, I do have some really low days but coming to the Centre gives me such a lift, the care, friendliness and good humour has such a positive effect and I always leave in a much better place mentally. I regularly remind myself of how lucky I am to be able to walk, a luxury I didn’t have for a while and something that most of us take for granted.

My hopes; For my MS to remain stable. I want to keep up my exercise, I am certain that it is helping and definitely making me physically and mentally stronger.

My fears; My greatest fear is that the MS hits hard again and I lose my mobility, I am absolutely petrified of losing my mobility and independence.

I naturally have bad days as anyone does but I truly believe that with positive mental determination and a belief that you can overcome your illness, this contributes hugely to keeping well.

The Reach for Health Centre is the best and only place to come to if you need physical health rehabilitation. It is just totally unique, I wish that every town could have a similar Centre as so many people benefit. It has made such a huge change to my life, I have made so many friends, some of whom will be life long friends. It is truly such a special place full of amazing and inspirational people. The team are just incredible…they make such a difference to so many lives and always show kindness, compassion and support to every single person that walks through the door. I am now proud to be a trustee of The Reach for Health Centre. I will do anything I can to help The Reach for Health Centre; I truly believe that it has saved me in a way and made my life so much better!

Dynamic Office Solutions Becomes Our First-Ever Corporate Fundraiser

We’re incredibly proud to announce a major milestone for The Reach for Health Centre.

Dynamic Office Solutions has become the first company to ever fundraise for our charity — and they’re doing so by taking on the challenging Wolf Run Trilogy.

This partnership marks a significant moment in our history. As our very first corporate fundraiser, Dynamic Office Solutions is helping to open the door for future business support, and we couldn’t be more grateful.

To raise vital funds, they’ve committed to completing the Wolf Run Trilogy — three demanding outdoor events across the year, each featuring a combination of woods, obstacles lakes and fields. It’s a tough challenge, and they’re embracing it with energy and determination.

Why Their Support Matters

At The Reach for Health Centre, we work with people recovering from illness, injury, or living with long-term health conditions, helping them improve their physical and mental wellbeing.

As a charity, we rely on the generosity of individuals and organisations alike. Dynamic’s decision to support us in this way is more than just a fundraising effort — it’s a strong message of belief in our mission, and a powerful act of community spirit.

Follow Their Journey

We’ll be sharing updates on Dynamic’s progress throughout the year as they take on the Wolf Run Trilogy. You can show your support by following along, cheering them on, or donating via their JustGiving page.

From everyone at The Reach for Health Centre — thank you to Dynamic Office Solutions for leading the way. We’re excited to start this journey with you.

Together for Mental Health

We are happy to announce a very exciting collaboration between The Reach for Health Centre and The Frank Bruno Foundation, a partnership dedicated to providing mental health support and promoting well-being in our community.

Special Coffee Morning

Ahead of the programme’s start, we invite you to join us for a special coffee morning on February 12th, from 10:00 am to 1:00 pm, at The Reach for Health Centre in Daventry. This event is a great opportunity to learn about the Round by Round Programme and how it can support mental well-being. We are also extremely honoured that Frank Bruno, former world champion boxer and founder of the Frank Bruno Foundation, will be joining us as a special guest. He will formally sign the paperwork that launches the collaboration, alongside our Chair of Trustees, Chris Heaton-Harris. The coffee morning will also provide a chance to meet other community members and discover how non-contact boxing sessions can positively impact your well-being.

Round by Round Programme Launch

Starting on Wednesday, March 5th, from 1:00 pm to 3:00 pm, we will launch the Round by Round Programme — a unique initiative designed to provide comprehensive mental health support through a combination of emotional well-being sessions and non-contact boxing. This programme is specifically tailored for individuals over the age of 18 who are experiencing challenges related to mental health.

The programme will be delivered weekly, providing ongoing support in a professional and supportive environment.

Key Details:

When: Starting March 5th, every Wednesday from 1:00 pm to 3:00 pm
Cost: £96 for the full 8-week programme
How to Sign Up: To express interest or register for the Round by Round Programme, please email darren@reachforhealth.co.uk.

Both our charities, The Reach for Health Centre and the Frank Bruno Foundation, are dedicated to providing a holistic approach to mental health that fosters both healthy minds and healthy bodies, ensuring all participants receive the support they deserve.

We look forward to welcoming you to the coffee morning and hope you will consider joining our well-being programme.

Rob Juson – Chair of Trustees

As Chair of Trustees of this remarkable charity I am frequently asked the question, “what makes The Reach for Health Centre so successful?” It is probably the easiest question for me to answer because it is the one thing that all of our Trustees are most proud of, “our coaching team.” I spend a lot of my time at the centre and over the years have witnessed the substantial improvements the team have made to the lives of many hundreds of people using a combination of patience, encouragement and skill. I have also learned not to underestimate their ability and focused determination to achieve the best possible outcomes, often way beyond expectations. The coaching team have devised a method of working as individuals and teams to derive the best possible results for those that attend the centre in need of health rehabilitation. They each have individual areas of responsibility that are designed to dovetail and encourage communication and support from each other. Wadge Grzelak is our centre director and mentor to every member of our coaching team. He has substantial experience in physical and mental health rehabilitation, as well as being ‘hands on’ he puts this wealth of knowledge to good use in guiding the team to continually improve our services and outcomes. Wadge also leads all aspects of the partnership we have with the University of Northampton. Dan Miller is our centre manager, a chartered physiotherapist and placement supervisor for University of Northampton Occupational Therapy students. Dan is also involved in a major research project being conducted jointly by The Reach for Health Centre and The University of Northampton. Karen Miller is our Cancer Rehabilitation lead, she is a coach very experienced in physical and mental health rehabilitation and tailors programs for both pre and post surgery. Maisy Radford is our DNAfit lead, a new service enabling fitness and nutrition to be specifically tailored to an individual’s genetic makeup. Maisy is also a placement supervisor for UoN Occupational Therapy students and involved in the joint research project. Harriet Crossley is our medical referrals lead, ensuring that all NHS referrals are seen by the coach best suited to their individual needs. Harriet is also responsible for organising the staff rota and keeps everyone in line! Connor Morris is our falls prevention lead and will be taking on the responsibility for the new initiative to be launched late Summer/early Autumn 2020, ‘AHA’ – Active Healthy Ageing. A tailored program designed for the more mature who are reasonably fit, active and healthy to stay that way for as long as possible.

Remarkable people, forming a remarkable team, achieving remarkable things in health rehabilitation.

Over 95% of our users are now referred to us by their GP’s, NHS Hospital doctors and consultants or other Health Professionals. We are currently receiving in the region of 500 new NHS referrals per year. Despite the fact that we are recognised so strongly by the NHS we receive no income from them or any other governmental organisation. Our current sources of income are derived from a small monthly charge to users, that equates to an average of £2.40 per visit, local fundraising carried out by our staff, volunteers, members and trustees and occasional grants that are invariably used to purchase new equipment. If you or your organisation wish to be associated with this amazing charity please contact me to discuss how you can help or for any further information that you may require. We would be very pleased to hear from any potential commercial sponsors.

Dr. Matthew Davies – General Practitioner

‘’Thank you doctor- that’s the best thing you have ever advised me to do.”

That sums up people’s reaction after joining The Reach for Health Centre, (RfH), and experiencing the support that patients with a whole range of physical, emotional and psychological conditions receive within this rehabilitative centre.

I am a local GP and the Medical Director of the local Clinical Commissioning Group, which organises and pays for health care. I firmly believe in the physical, psychological and social benefits of exercise.

I first met the team at RfH six years ago after a pub conversation backfired and resulted in me entering a sponsored cycle ride from Lands End to John O’Groats. For the ride to be meaningful, I decided to support an exercise-based charity. It was at this point that I discovered that RfH is categorically not just a gym – it is so much more than that. The first time I visited The Reach for Health Centre, I was met by a group of more mature clients, who, while they were exercising, were also putting the world to rights and laughing a lot. Clearly they were adding life to their years and having a great time. The atmosphere of positivity was infective and certainly kept me going up some of those Scottish hills.

Being able to refer patients to The Reach for Health Centre is invaluable for the whole range of people that I see. Young and old, sad, injured or having a long term health condition; everybody benefits from the tailored program that they develop with the team. The goals that are set are suitable to their condition and particular circumstances and the greatest encouragement that they get is from other members. The smile on the face and change in attitude of the sceptics who come back to the surgery after a couple of sessions is inspiring.

Undoubtedly, exercise and rehabilitation are an essential part of a high quality pathway of care for people with any chronic condition. Evidence has shown that helping somebody to be more active reduces their risk of developing diabetes and helps people in their recovery from an episode of depression. Keeping older people active helps prevent falls, improves breathlessness and promotes independence – especially after an illness. Unfortunately, the pressure on the NHS means that rehabilitation and exercise are at the back of the queue when it comes to available resources. This serves to further underline the need for The Reach for Health Centre to continue to provide their outstanding expertise for those in our community that are in need of it.

I am a passionate believer in the benefits of exercise – getting people active, engaged and energised is the key to a healthy and motivated population. It is the antidote to our unhealthy lifestyles where we spend long hours in front of our televisions or computer screens.

During late Summer 2020 The Reach for Health Centre will be moving into a much bigger, purpose-designed building where they will be able to build on the fabulous work that has been achieved by the team so far. More people will have the opportunity to enhance, and in many cases, rebuild their lives. We are lucky to have this unique Charity working so hard for people in need in our local community.

Wadge Grzelak – Centre Director

The number of people over the age of 65 is predicted to rise to 24% of the population by 2035. In 1975 those living past 65 was only 14.1%. This increase is largely due to huge advances in modern medicine and people’s living conditions and lifestyle resulting in people living longer. This impacts in a number of ways, perhaps the most significant being that longer life often results in serious health conditions occurring. The increase in life expectancy of the population is already having a major impact on the NHS, Social care and the economy. In future years this is only likely to become greater. It is therefore vital that we tackle two principal issues; we educate people in ways to improve their fitness, diet and lifestyle and find ways to deal with the need for health rehabilitation for those already affected and who will become affected by major health issues.

The Reach for Health Centre is striving to make a difference, to do more than just help people live longer, it is dedicated to adding quality of life to those extra years, thereby reducing the impact of major health issues and lower the cost to the NHS. However, promoting the appropriate activity with older people still remains one of the greatest challenges of our time. The benefits of staying active are even greater as we get older, exercise can be adapted to any medical condition, and like medication exercise follows a dose response curve. The lower the baseline levels of physical activity, the greater the health benefits associated with an increase in physical activity.

The team at The Reach for Health Centre achieves this by focusing on the impact that the health condition, developmental difficulty or resulting disability has had on the person’s life. This involves working in partnership with the person’s Health Professional and teaming up with the individual and those important to them. With the support of our dedicated local doctors, highly skilled nurses and other health professionals.

Diabetes is costing the NHS £1.5 million pounds every hour! and ranks in the top 5 referrals we receive at Reach for Health.

A study showed 90 year olds rejuvenated strength of some 10-20 years in only 12 weeks of following a prescribed exercise program.

The W.H.O. attributes 37% of all coronary heart disease related deaths to inactivity.

Source: Office of National Statistics

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