Two Ealing pensioners living with Parkinson’s disease have praised a free fitness scheme that they say has transformed their health and wellbeing, as the initiative celebrates its fourth year nationwide.
The programme, delivered by Everyone Active in partnership with Parkinson’s UK, offers free access to gyms, swimming pools and exercise classes across Ealing’s leisure centres for people with Parkinson’s and up to three carers. Seventy-seven local residents are currently enrolled.
Among them is 79-year-old Domenica Ciliberti, who joined the scheme two years ago following her diagnosis and now attends regular sessions at Acton Centre.
Domenica said: “The more I do exercise here, the slower the condition of Parkinson’s is. There were movements in my legs and arms that I couldn’t do before I came here but now I can do them.”
Clare Hotson, 67, also takes part in classes at Acton. She said: “This place is wonderful. I had five years of good health because I was doing exercise.”
Following a recent hospital stay, Clare revealed the sessions have been essential to her recovery. She added: “I lost some of the muscle in my legs but it’s come back again and I am much stronger.”
Phil Edwards, contract manager at Everyone Active, commented: “Seeing the progress made by people like Domenica and Clare is a powerful reminder of the impact physical activity can have – not just physically, but mentally and socially too.”
