Our award-winning Ageless & Agile sessions have had a meaningful impact on many who’ve taken part — offering consistency, encouragement and a space to just be themselves.
One regular attendee, Ady, recently moved to Germany, but before he left, he shared this personal reflection on his time with us.
With his permission, we’re able to share it with you:
Ady’s Reflections
Before I joined Ageless & Agile, I was in a place where my mental health struggles had complete control over my life. I let them rule me, and it felt like I was constantly drowning. Walking into my first session (19th Sept 2023), I didn’t feel comfortable, I was nervous and unsure if this was the right place for me.
But then something changed.
Rhea and Donna came over, welcomed me with open arms, and included me in everything. That small act of kindness made a huge difference. From that moment on, Tuesdays became my routine my anchor. A&A became more than just a program; it became my safe place.
I want to say a massive thank you to Sarah and Marko – you’ve been there whenever I needed support, and I’ll never forget that. And to everyone who’s helped me on this journey over the past couple of years: thank you. You’ve played a part in changing my life.
Now, as I prepare to move to Germany to start a new chapter, I carry the strength and support I found at A&A with me. It will always have a place in my heart.
Background:
Ady attended his first A&A session with Claire Chester (social prescriber), he was indeed very anxious on his first few visits but very quickly became a part of the group. He has also been a great encouragement to others in the group. He has struggled with his mental health since we’ve known him with a mental health team supporting him and at times it seemed a real battle for him. But he has kept up the A&A sessions and found some great friendships through it.
Now he has this opportunity to move with his wife and children (his wife is German) to a town in Germany where there will be family nearby to support them. Ady has also been offered (and he’s accepted) a job which he is very positive about.
We have definitely seen a positive change in his mental wellbeing and although nervous about going they know it will be a great new start for them. We hope from time-to-time Ady can join A&A sessions via zoom or Teams!
And that’s what Ageless & Agile is truly all about.
Thank you, Ady, for sharing your journey. We’re proud to have been a part of it, and you’ll always have a place with us.
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