This entry was posted on Tuesday, December 3rd, 2013at 1:13 pm by zoe.leahy@activenation.org.uk

Sarah’s ‘Makin’ Progress And Taking A Step In The Right Direction

When Sarah Makin first started visiting Yarborough Leisure Centre she was in a wheelchair and doctors had told her she would probably never be able to walk again.

Now she climbs 27 stairs, twice a week, to get to her gym session, and after her workout she walks back down the stairs before having a well earned cup of tea in the centre’s cafe.

Sarah, 37, and her mum Christine, first became concerned about her balance and co-ordination when she was about 12.

Christine said: “She kept falling over and we would go to the GP. For so long we didn’t have any answers. Then finally, we were told that she has ataxia.”

Ataxia is the name given to a group of neurological disorders that affect balance, coordination, and speech. There are many different types of ataxia that can affect people in different ways – Sarah’s condition is believed to be caused by an inherited faulty gene. 

With the help of her stick and a lot of determination Sarah has transformed her life and has managed to get out of her wheelchair and back on her feet.

Exercise coach Nathan Onyon has been working with Sarah in her sessions. He said: “Sarah has been a true inspiration to others. Her commitment and hard work has been incredible and she is a pleasure to work with.

“The progression she has made has had a massive effect on her life and her confidence has soared. Keep up the hard work Sarah! We are very proud of you!”

Sarah first started coming to the centre about three years ago after being referred by her GP.

Christine added: “As well as coming to the gym, Sarah sees a physiotherapist at the hospital and does her exercises at home.

“Sometimes Sarah does get frustrated as she has gone from someone who is able to walk, to being in a wheelchair, and now to walking again. She wants to be able to do more, but she doesn’t realise just how far she has come. I’m so proud of her and her determination.”

Sarah said: “I would come to the gym every day if I could, even if it meant crawling here! I love it and like to push myself. It has opened so many doors for me and has helped me to walk again.

“I would tell other people who are struggling like I was on my own to go and see their GP and get a referral. I told one of my friends about it and she now comes too.”

For more information about the GP Exercise Referral Programme please contact your local GP. If you have been inspired by Sarah’s story and want to get active – call in to Yarborough Leisure Centre on Riseholme Road, Lincoln, or give us a call on 01522 873600.