Mick’s Journey
A story of consistency and support
When I was first diagnosed with primary progressive Multiple Sclerosis (MS), I never imagined that my life would change so drastically. I used to be an independent man who was able to walk, play golf, and enjoy life. But as the disease progressed, I became more and more reliant on a power chair, and my physical condition started to decline.
I hadn’t done any exercise for five years. I felt stuck, frustrated, and physically weaker.
That’s when I met Kiera and the Lifespan Physiotherapy team. At first, I wasn’t keen on exercise. I didn’t like it, and I certainly didn’t want to do it. But Kiera didn’t just start with a program or a list of exercises. She started with a conversation. We talked about my interests, my goals, and what I enjoyed.
Kiera took the time to connect with me, and that’s when we decided to try hydrotherapy.
Hydrotherapy became a really helpful part of my routine. Unlike traditional land-based exercises that felt overwhelming and uncomfortable, the pool gave me a fresh start.
The pool sessions were short and sweet, and I felt they suited me really well.
“The pool didn’t feel like therapy, it felt more like a social outing, and that made it easier to stick with.”
When I first started working with Kiera I could only stand for a minute and a half before needing to sit down. Now, I’m noticing I can stand for longer with more confidence than before.
I used to fall frequently, and now I feel I have more confidence when standing or moving around with support.
Kiera set up a program for me that fit easily into my daily life. On non-hydrotherapy days, I use a walker she recommended that suits my height and helps me move around safely at home. I didn’t expect to feel this confident moving around my house again, and it’s been a really positive change for me.
“Now, I’m living healthier than I was before. I’m eating home-cooked meals instead of junk food, and I’m exercising regularly.”
Another big change came when I started using support workers. Before Lifespan Therapy Services, I felt completely isolated. I wouldn’t let anyone into my home, and I had no formal support. But through the physio sessions with Kiera, I began to trust her, and it was through that connection that she referred me to a Support Coordinator.
This was a huge turning point for me, and it led to me being connected with the support workers I now rely on daily. They help with everything from taking me to the pool to making meals and doing laundry.
At first, I wasn’t too keen on having someone assist me, but once I found the right support workers it really felt like they became part of my team.
It’s made me feel safer, healthier, more confident in my daily life and I love the company.
“Having support has made me feel a lot more comfortable. I’m now doing the exercises and feeling fitter, more confident, and comfortable.”
I really do feel like I’m in control again. I’ve gone from someone who was falling all the time to someone who can stand and walk around confidently. My confidence has grown not only in my physical abilities but also in my mindset.
“My biggest change has been in my confidence. I used to feel unsteady a lot of the time, but now I feel much more secure when I’m on my feet. Friends and family who know me well have said they can see how much more comfortable and sure of myself I am.”
I’ve learned to embrace the support and routine that I need to live my life to the fullest, despite MS.
If I could give anyone advice, it would be to trust the process. At first, I wasn’t sure if anything would work, but Kiera’s approach has been everything I needed.