Finding Strength in Support: Helen’s Journey with Kyphoscoliosis

When we last caught up with Helen who lives with kyphoscoliosis, a complex spinal condition, she was doing well, feeling better and starting to enjoy being more social. More than six months on, she has gone from strength to strength. Her diary is full, her circle of friends keeps growing, and she’s embracing new experiences with confidence. 

Where it began

Helen's journey started with a referral from her GP to Lincs Inspire’s Active Forever programme. A 12-week scheme where members take part in a range of supported exercise that is right for them. Helen started attending the Wellness Hub at the Grimsby Health and Wellbeing Centre, enjoying a gentle and supported introduction into exercise using power-assisted exercise.

After finishing the programme, Helen continued attending, through support from the O’Flynn Foundation, a local charity founded by Jayne O’Flynn. The charity’s purpose is to improve the lives of individuals affected by mental health issues, strokes and other degenerative conditions in the local area. 

The funding gave Helen continued access to Lincs Inspire's facilities, and she used them with great success and real enjoyment. That time helped her build the confidence and sense of self-worth she carries today.

Helen has since moved on to new adventures. The O'Flynn Foundation continues to support her, and her progress shows how the right help at the right time can turn things around.

Ongoing support that makes a difference

Helen lives with kyphoscoliosis and arthritis, which can make everyday life painful, especially in the colder months. Kyphoscoliosis is a dual curvature of the spine. Living with this condition requires constant care; physical therapy can help to ease discomfort and maintain mobility, whilst heat therapy can effectively manage muscle tension and stiffness. 

The O'Flynn Foundation continues to provide support, and Helen receives monthly massage treatments to help ease her pain.

Jayne believes passionately in stepping in where help is needed. “The NHS does brilliant work but can't do everything. When a charity has the funds, you can step in, act quickly and offer support that changes lives. It’s wonderful to see how much Helen has grown as a person over the last year. She has so much more confidence; the difference in her is plain to see. I hope the O’Flynn Foundation can keep supporting Helen for a long time to come.”

Ask Helen what she's been up to, and the answer is a busy one. In a typical week she meets friends for coffee, heads into town, and keeps up with appointments. She is also actively looking for work.

On Fridays she goes to Warrior Women, a friendly, women-only group run by The Equalities Practice. The group gives women a welcoming space to try new things together. Recently they baked pizzas with Mandy's Pantry, went for a group walk around People's Park, and have regular coffee get-togethers and good conversation.

Helen has been enjoying day trips too. She has visited a local market, taken a bus trip to Leeds, and has a November outing planned with a friend from Halifax who knows the area well.

She has also found companionship with her partner, John, and the two look out for one another.

Asked whether she feels better mentally, physically and socially, Helen's answer was a clear "yes" to all three. And when asked whether the future is bright? "Yes, it is."

Helen added: “I was once someone who spent a lot of time at home. Today I have a busy social life, new friends and a real purpose.”

Stories like Helen's show how much can be achieved with continued support. The O'Flynn Foundation relies on grants and fundraising, including its popular annual golf day, to keep helping people like Helen. Jayne's hope is to reach many more people in the years ahead.

We're so proud of how far Helen has come since first visiting our Health and Wellbeing Centre. We can't wait to see what she does next.

The equipment at the leisure centre is marvellous. It supports all kinds of different people with a wide range of medical conditions. For me it has helped in so many ways.