Dorothy's YMCA Wellness Journey

Dorothy’s Journey with YMCA Thornton’s Active Wellness Suite

After a lifetime of playing high-level sport, including hockey for Lancashire and competitive tennis, Dorothy’s active lifestyle was halted following hip problems that required surgery. However, her determination to stay active and connected led her to the YMCA Active Wellness Suite through a social prescribing referral at a Cleveleys Library event.

Following her hip replacement surgery in February 2024, Dorothy joined the Active Wellness Suite in November. “The staff are so welcoming — it feels like a home from home,” she told us. “Lovely people go there, and I meet someone new every session.” Dorothy now visits the suite four times a week, showing incredible commitment to her recovery and wellness.

Dorothy’s first impressions were positive, and the Active Wellness Suite team soon helped her fine-tune her approach to using the equipment for maximum benefit. “The staff advised me to slow down on the machines to get more out of them — and it made a real difference.” Accessibility has also been a key benefit for Dorothy, with the suite’s ground-floor location making it easy to access and use.

She has particularly enjoyed cycling a mile on the exercise bike during her sessions and credits the suite with her physical and mental transformation. “I feel much stronger, especially in my arms.” A significant milestone for Dorothy was regaining the strength and confidence to get in and out of the bath — something she couldn’t do for four months post-surgery.

Mentally, Dorothy feels more resilient too. “It’s not just a wellbeing suite — it’s a community. You’re working hard and chatting to friends. It makes you feel young again!” She’s met over 50 new friends through her time at the suite and praises the staff for their “excellent support, kindness, and approachability.”

Dorothy’s goal now is simple: keep going. “I want to maintain my strength and stay active. Coming here has kept me motivated and outdoors.” She believes strongly in encouraging others to take that first step too: “You can get very insular and stay at home. But there’s a life out there — grasp it with both hands!”

Adding to her incredible year, Dorothy was also awarded a British Empire Medal (BEM) in October 2024, recognising her contributions to the community — a fitting honour for someone who continues to inspire through her strength, resilience, and spirit.

We’re proud to have Dorothy as part of our YMCA family!