A Winshill man who suffered a stroke last year has found a new lease of life through swimming at Meadowside Leisure Centre.
John Burton had a stroke in March 2024 which left him unable to walk or talk, with his entire right side being completely numb.
The 68-year-old had to re-learn how to walk and talk, as well as re-learn how to perform daily activities such as how to dress himself and eat by himself.
As part of his recovery, John wanted to start swimming lessons at Meadowside Leisure Centre, run by award-winning operator Everyone Active in partnership with East Staffordshire Borough Council.
This was with the aim of improving his physical movement and mental health, and it was then that he met swim manager Nicola Bannister and swim teacher Tia Bannister, Nicola’s daughter.
John said: “The first time I came to the centre, I was really scared, nervous and anxious about the experience, but once I spoke with Nicola and Tia, I felt much more confident.
“I left the centre crying with joy because everyone made me feel so comfortable and accepted.”
John started learning to swim with the assistance of buoyancy aids and physical support in the pool from Everyone Active colleagues. Within a month, he was swimming independently.
Tia has boosted John’s confidence by celebrating every small improvement. She has got to know him, understood where he is in his recovery and challenged him to push himself further.
John added: “Since starting lessons, my balance has got better and while my movements are reduced, that is down to the nerve damage.
“The biggest impact has been to my mental well-being, I am much more positive and really look forward to lessons on Fridays.”
Cllr Paul Walker, the Cabinet member for Tourism and Cultural Development, said: “It is great to hear stories like the one from John and we wish him well in his continued recovery. It shows how important physical activity can be to the health and wellbeing of an individual. It is great to know our leisure centres have a range of facilities such as new pool hoists and a Changing Places room to make them accessible to everyone, alongside trained staff who are able to provide support when needed.”