Our Client Stories
Suzanne's Story
Suzanne is a client at Able2B and her mum, Jo, was kind enough to talk to me about Suzanne’s experience at our gym.
After surgery in early 2023 Rachael Hutchinson, the co-founder of Able2B, came and recommended coming along to the gym in order to build her strength.
At first, it was clear that she didn’t really want to go as she would come in crying but in true Able2B fashion the team didn’t give up on her.
Jon Thaxton, the other co-founder of Able2B, took Suzanne on a walk outside to let her relax and take a minute. A year later, Suzanne now looks forward to her gym sessions where she does all manner of workouts.
It has been such a success for Suzanne that Jo’s husband Chris is now going.
Sandra's Story
Back in 2017, Sandra had a stroke which left her using a wheelchair and unable to move the left side of her body.
With Rachael and the whole team at Able2B behind her, she has come on leaps and bounds and is now able to walk with just a stick and feels a lot more flexible.
Sandra has been coming to Able2B since we opened in 2019 which makes this a great example of how with a bit of hard work and determination, a lot is possible.
She particularly likes coming because of the positive atmosphere with which she is surrounded.
Nick's Story
Nick has Cerebral Palsy amongst other things like arthritis but she feels that Able2B has been able to help her aches and pains immensely. She says that she would even say that the range of active help it gives her, is better than anything the NHS could give her. Nick expressed to me her belief that if Able2B was able to be a part of the NHS services, it would save them a lot of money in physiotherapy, medications and other services. A few years ago, Nick went to see Rachael in the clinic about a problem she’s been having with her ankle and she suggested coming to Able2B for some sessions. After those few sessions, she felt herself instantly improving and she says she hasn’t had to see a doctor nearly as often as before.
Marlika's Story
Marlika first came to Able2B in August 2020 after hearing about it from a craft group. She wanted to find a physio, but her friends suggested us. Marlika started 1:1 sessions with Rachel to find out what she could do and now she participates in group boxing cardio sessions amongst other things.
Liam's Story
Liam is a 24-year-old with Cerebral Palsy and loves coming to Able2B, especially for the adapted Swimspa and the sense of community. As a wheelchair user who struggles with communication, he often feels frustrated and overlooked. However, every member of the Able2B team gives Liam the time and space he needs to express himself which he is very grateful for. Aside from the swimming pool, he also does cycling and regularly makes friends at Bingo whilst talking about his favourite book, Harry Potter.
Luke's Story
In January 2023, Luke had a stroke and whilst recovering in the Colman hospital a year later, someone mentioned Able2B and Racheal Hutchinson. Luke was immediately intrigued by this and decided to have a go. Currently, he does a bit of everything from boxing (his favourite) with Jon Thaxton, to participating in the circuit activities and weight lifting. Luke says that what he loves most about Able2B is the motivation he receives, not just from the wonderful staff but also from his fellow participants.
Leo's Story
Leo discovered Able2B through his other half in November 2022 as she’d heard about it and thought it would be beneficial to him. At first, Leo was very reluctant as, in his experience and many other disabled people’s, people can often be patronising particularly where physical activity is concerned. This fear though was completely obliterated as soon as he met Jon. Jon does not pander to anyone; he will push you to your limits with your best interests in mind. Leo says that the best thing about Able2B is that everyone is so different. They are all on their own journey and everybody supports each other’s successes.
Samantha's Story
Samantha has multiple nerve and pain conditions and although Able2B has not been able to relieve any of the pain, having only started in October 2023, she has made extraordinary strides in her independence. At the beginning of her journey with us, she nearly always used her wheelchair to get around. Through working tirelessly on her balance, she now often uses her walker when she’s out and about. Samantha particularly loves the community at Able2B and the motivation she receives from staff and participants. Everyone is so supportive and will check on you if you’re having a bad day.