THE onset of a medical condition that left Nancy Chapman with severe sight problems has not stopped this determined lady attending her regular exercise sessions at Mablethorpe’s Station Sports Centre.
In fact, until recently Nancy, 62, from Sutton-on-Sea had to use a cane to help support her on and off the equipment – now however, as her eyesight slowly begins to recover, she is becoming more independent by the day, and she puts her improved fitness levels down as a reason.
Her weight-loss and healthier lifestyle has also seen Nancy reduce her medication for high blood pressure – which for her was hereditary and something she has battled with all her adult life.
“After years of medication, I was fed up with taking it and realised too that I needed to get fit, I was breathless going up the stairs and knew I needed to lose weight,” explained Nancy.
Latest health statistics for Lincolnshire show how, in the East Lindsey District, life expectancy is lower than the national average with levels of excess weight and deaths from cardio-vascular disease both higher than the UK average.
For Nancy her regular visits to the centre, where she goes in the gym and takes part in classes, has seen a significant boost to her health and wellbeing – and, she says, it’s about more than just exercise, with new friends made.
Her eyesight is now slowly improving, although she remains with only partial sight after contracting Vogt-Koyanagi-Harada disease (VKH disease), which can affect one of several parts of the body. She remains on steroids, but at a reduced level.
“I refused to stop coming here, I would not let it beat me and everyone here is so helpful that it makes it a lot easier. I also have a need to socialise and being here is about getting out and about, meeting people and being healthier,” added Nancy.
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