Anne, 82 – Arthritis

I am an eighty two year old woman with arthritis.  It has been challenging to accept the changes in my body and the changes to my lifestyle as a result.  It was particularly distressing when I had to stop my twice weekly swimming sessions  as I found it difficult to change into my swimming costume. However, I did not want to give up and contacted Bikur Cholim as I thought that perhaps a volunteer could help me out.   Now I enjoy a swim every week with my community mentor who assists me with dressing and undressing.  The one hour I spend in the water, keeps me going all week.  I can’t thank Helen (my community mentor) enough for helping me resume this activity.  This is in addition to the walk through the park we take together each week.  I know my arthritis can’t be reversed but my doctor has told me that physical activity has slowed down the decline in my health.  I feel so much better than I did six months ago.  Thank you!”