Last month marked the 20th anniversary of the Multiple Sclerosis Self Help Exercise Group, which runs in the gym at Eastbourne District General Hospital on Friday evenings.
Multiple Sclerosis Self Help Exercise Group celebrating their 20th anniversary
Many of the group have been attending since it started, which is an amazing achievement. Debbie Soave, Team Lead Neurophysiotherapy Outpatients, said:
“Group members worked on an exercise challenge throughout the month, aiming to improve either their mileage or speed on a variety of equipment depending on their ability. Those who are wheelchair users used the active/passive Theratrainer bike for arms and legs, and the Recumbent X trainer, while the more able members used bikes, treadmills and enjoyed the new rowers.
“The Recumbent X trainer is one of the most versatile pieces of rehabilitation equipment in our gym, as it is suitable for anyone who can transfer, so can be used for amputee, cardiac, musculoskeletal and neuro patients.”
The Eastbourne and South Wealden Group of the MS Society are aiming to fund a second Recumbent X trainer for the physiotherapy team at Eastbourne DGH. In support of this, the physiotherapy team held their annual Halloween Cake Break on 24 October and raised £100 for the MS Society and another £100 for the Huntington’s Disease Association.
“I have known many of the members of our exercise group for over 20 years,” continued Debbie, “and the friendships between us all are behind the ongoing commitment to our group. The most important elements are the members and we have a huge admiration for them all. The team love doing these sessions because of the positivity, humour and support the members have for each other.”