"Healthy Routes and other matters"

I was diagnosed with Rheumatoid Arthritis in 1987, as a consequence of which I have undergone three separate lots of surgery on my left ankle, left shoulder and replacement lift knee.

My story today is about Healthy Routes, particularly the help, understanding, advice and assistance I have been given by Lisa at Alexandra Road, Hull.

Without Lisa I would not have lost the 11 lbs I have lost to date - which is encouraging me to slowly but surely losing additional weight.

Without Lisa I would not have been referred to the Aqua Stretch and Pilates classes, both of which are slowly but surely making me fitter - and both of which I thoroughly enjoy.

My aim, at the age of 67, is to be as fit as I can be with my ailment, which I largely try to ignore. The above things are making this easier than trying on my own.

Everyone has been superb - I could not have asked for more - I recommend Healthy Routes to all my friends who, being of similar age, suffer from a variety of things.

My particular thanks lies with Lisa - she deserves a gong - in fact, all of the staff I have encountered at Alexandra Road have been very helpful.

I have a similar accolade for staff at Castle Hill, who have recently helped me with a problem with my left shoulder. The care and consideration I received was superb.

A big thank you from a very grateful patient.