Noelene kindly shared her journey with us, offering an inspiring look at how small steps have transformed her health and happiness….

I injured my left knee two years ago by falling on slippery outdoor steps.  Over the two-year period my knee progressively became worse.

Last year, ACC accepted my case.  No longer able to work full-time, I spent a lot of time sitting at home.  I became lethargic, losing my balance and aching all over.  I needed to use crutches everywhere I went. The right side of my body from the shoulder to the hip and ankle started compensating for the left side, which aggravated the initial injury.  I was always an avid gardener and enjoyed walking the loop twice a week prior to my injury.

I applied for a Green Prescription through my GP and had an initial consultation with my support person Erin.  Through her guidance and phone calls I am now visiting the aquatic pools, enjoying the hydrotherapy pool three times a week with my sister.  We place a noodle between our legs, and for an hour, sometimes longer, we can gently move our arms and legs the whole time - without any discomfort or pain.  It is exhilarating and helps my mental health and anxiety.  I have noticed over a short period of time that my balance has improved, and I am motivated again to change my lifestyle.  At 69 years of age this year I feel like I can conquer life again.  The social aspect is wonderful. I am meeting new people and because we are not actually swimming but gently exercising together, we all savor our little wins together, encouraging each other.  No one here cares what you look like in your togs, there is no embarrassment for anyone.

Initially my biggest challenge was staying in the pool for more than half an hour to make my time worthwhile.  Because of new friendships and good conversations, the time passes quickly.  Because of the fast results mentally and emotionally, socially and physically I am motivated to continue.  My sister and I are going to continue with the hydro pool for several months then we will start with the gym, slowly working our upper body in conjunction with the pools.  Our next step will be to start slowly walking parts of the loop with the goal of working out at the pool, gym and loop three times a week together.

I now walk around my backyard, which is large, every evening.  Our dinner now consists of more salads and vegetables which the family enjoys.

Erin from Green Prescription has been a fundamental help for me encouraging me in my journey and regular phone calls which also help to motivate me.  My husband, who is turning 70 this year, has been a great support.  He is now joining myself and my sister at the hydro pools and is now wanting to do the whole journey with us moving forward.

It is never too late to think about our health and start the process of becoming as fit as we can.  This does not mean jogging and running and lifting heavy weights.  Just slowly exercising at our own pace is the way to go and it does not feel like exercise.

I would encourage any person to think about becoming more active.  It will change your life for the better.  I feel excited about my future and can’t stop smiling.

At Sport Northland, we exist to enrich Northlanders’ lives by inspiring and enabling more movement. One of the ways we do this is through Green Prescription—supporting people on their journey. If you’d like support with your activity or nutrition goals, give us a call on 0800 ACTIVE. We’re here to help.

Article written by Erin Tindall, Healthy Lifestyle Lead