‘I feel wonderful, I feel confident, I can walk!'

Colm is 76 and has been a service user with Link Age Southwark since 2022. Originally from Galway, Colm has travelled the world with his work in construction bringing water to remote villages. He also spent time studying in London and bartending at night in an Irish bar in Clapham: ‘Pouring Guinness for others. I don’t even like the stuff.’ he says chuckling at the memory. 

Colm is a regular attendee at our Friday Gentle Exercise class run by our tutor, Kerry. Recently life has thrown Colm some challenges. He was diagnosed with Parkinson's disease and not long after had a fall in the street. His confidence waned and he became reliant on a walking stick. ‘I was hardly walking when I first started attending the class.’

Since joining the exercise classes the change has been profound. ‘She’s done wonders for me’ Colm says about Kerry’s classes. They are a mixture of strength, balance and practical exercises that support everyday movement. He emphasises that it’s not just the physical exercise but also the supportive talks that Kerry gives that have rebuilt his confidence. ‘I never entertain the fact that I cannot do it. Do it anyway,’ he asserts. 

Colm's improvement is evident. He now walks with pride, with the class' signature "ten years younger" strut. His newfound confidence even inspired him to redecorate and declutter his flat. Kerry's and the groups influence has been significant, encouraging each other to spring clean and organise their belongings. ‘It does everybody good’ he says. Kerry has also encouraged Colm to access other facilities and he now frequents the gym and uses the aqua pool in Peckham. He says: ‘I feel wonderful, I feel confident, I can walk.’