“I needed a place that understood Parkinson’s. Here, I fit in.” Finding community, confidence and new ways to get active with Merton Moves

After a Parkinson’s diagnosis and an earlier experience of bone cancer, Ellen* was looking to get active and for a community that understood her condition without seeing her limits first. She heard about Merton Moves through her physiotherapy group and decided to take part in the six?week pledge. 

Ellen met with the Merton Moves co-ordinator who discussed exercise classes that might suit her best. The programme gave Ellen the freedom to explore what worked for her body by offering a choice of exercise options. And through Wimbledon Guild, she found something just as powerful – a real sense of belonging. “I needed a place that understood Parkinson’s,” she says. “Here, I fit in.” What surprised her most was the shift in how she felt day to day. “I was once so angry, but I am just such a happy person now, and you have helped me achieve that.” 

Two years on from completing her Merton Moves pledge, Ellen is more active than ever. With support from our Merton Moves Coordinator who stays in touch throughout the pledge, she’s tried a range of classes and now regularly also comes along to Seated Yoga and Pilates. She tells us how great the instructors are, “they explain what we’re doing and why. It makes you want to do it.” 

Inspired by the benefits of exercising offered through the Merton Moves pledge, Ellen also joined a local gym and now exercises most days. “My muscles remembered,” she says. “I’ve surprised myself.” 

Stronger, happier and connected, Ellen feels she has “only gone forwards.” Her focus now is simple: “To be better than I am today – every day improving and learning.” 

If you’re aged 60+ and want to get more active, get in touch and find out how Wimbledon Guild and Merton Moves can help. 

*Name changed to protect confidentiality