In our fourth installment of #ExerciseRightWeek, we’re thrilled to introduce you to Janette and Nicole
Over the two years Nicole and Janette have been working together on Janette’s health and fitness, the pair have developed a wonderful friendship.
Janette says, “Since starting with Therapy Care, I’ve definitely noticed I am continuously getting fitter, stronger and even happier.
“Day to day activities such as getting out of bed and on and off the toilet are easier and I require less assistance. I have a long way to go but I’m really proud of how far I’ve come.”
Janette’s current health and fitness goals are:
To stand up without the assistance of a therapist but still using physical aids such as kitchen bench or bar
Perform a leg extension with correct foot positioning (no inversion)
Nicole has set the long-term goal for Janette to stand up and sit down independently without assistance from therapist or assistive technology.
Janette lives with Friedreich’s ataxia; a rare genetic disease that causes a loss of control over muscular actions, sensory function and a decrease in fine/gross motor skills and coordination. This results in difficulty walking and a loss of sensation in the arms and legs.
The good news is research suggests exercise and specific activities can aid in reducing the severity of the physical impact Friedreich’s ataxia has on the body.
In Janette’s case, while Janette can’t stand independently, she can perform a wide range of exercises from her wheelchair.
Nicole prescribes exercises that challenge Janette, without being outside of her abilities.
Nicole and Janette see each other three times each week for one hour. Prior to the COVID-19 restrictions Janette was also participating in Therapy Care’s rehab group which ran for two hours. Janette is eager to return to this as soon as Therapy Care can recommence group activities in the gym.
“Since day one Janette has always been happy, cheerful and really determined.
“Her confidence and enjoyment throughout the sessions has increased as her physical function has improved. The satisfaction of achieving the various goals we continually set for Janette really keeps her motivated. It’s wonderful to see,” says Nicole.
As well as working with Janette, Nicole loves the bonds she has the opportunity of forming with the participants she works with at Therapy Care.
“Watching them grow and progress physically and socially is an incredible thing.
“The joy and pride clients feel when they achieve their goals and being able to share those moments with them is what makes this job so amazing,” says Nicole.
