‘I was suffering with pain, fatigue and digestive problems…’
Before I came to Vitality360…
I was suffering with pain, fatigue, and digestive problems. I also tended to get recurrent bacterial infections as well as brain fog and some cognitive issues. I experienced constant pain. I was coping with my job by pushing myself which led to a 'boom bust' pattern. I had two speeds: 'on' or 'off'. My previous technique of using 'mind over matter' stopped working and I could no longer push through with an act of will.
I was admitted to hospital for a week following onset of paralysis and when I was discharged, I resumed work as quickly as possible. Slowly over time I realised that I was having to spend more time recovering at weekends following a busy week at work and I was relying on painkillers to get me through.
Eventually my condition stopped improving and despite some adjustments to work including working from home, I stopped altogether.
How has the programme helped you to regain some vitality?
The programme with Vitality360 has helped me to have a sense of recovery and supported me to return to work. The programme has given me an overall awareness of my condition and how considering this, I need to pace myself effectively, including practising active resting. I learnt how to balance different types of activities including swimming. I now understand managing my pain and using routine to help me manage my condition.
How did your Clinician(s) support you in this process?
The sessions allowed me the space to consider a more holistic reality of living with pain. I was able, with the programme’s support, to know when I was pushing too hard and how to reset my expectations.
The support, care and tools to help me move from the despair and hopelessness I felt with constant pain was crucial in my recovery. Charlie was a lifeline and supported me on this journey and her care, compassion, empathy and clinical knowledge were invaluable.
What was most beneficial about the programme overall?
I was supported to work out how to sustain employment in my role considering my condition. I attended a workplace meeting with my employer where we discussed how this would be done. I was able to learn how to be explicit about my needs.
I returned to work in a phased and part time manner increasing my hours over time. I am now able to prioritise rest and recovery and can be assertive in an at times demanding work environment.
I am now back at work as Head of Sustainability on a full time basis.
“Charlie was a lifeline and supported me on this journey and her care, compassion, empathy, and clinical knowledge were invaluable”