In my retirement, I loved nothing more than spending time with my grandchildren and tending to my beloved garden. Before that, I worked in various jobs, from being a pub landlady, to a cleaner and shop worker, and I even helped my partner manage the local RAF Association Club. Gardening has always been a huge part of my life, so it was tough being away from my own garden. Thankfully, I’m from the Welsh Valleys, so my family was able to visit me easily when I spent time at the Welsh Spinal Cord Injury Rehabilitation Centre at Llandough Hospital in Cardiff.
In early 2023, I had a fall down a flight of stairs that left me with a severe injury to my neck, damaging the C3 and C4 vertebrae. The result was incomplete tetraplegia, which affects my legs, arms, and hands. Luckily, being ‘incomplete’ means I still have some feeling in my arms and hands, which gives me hope. The whole experience has been hard on me, but also on my family, who have been understandably worried about my recovery. Despite the challenges, I’ve made progress. I’ve regained the ability to write and can now control my self-propelled wheelchair, things I never thought would be possible.
Horatio’s Garden Wales has played such an important role in my recovery. It’s been my refuge, and I’ve thrown myself into all the activities there. Glass fusion, willow weaving, and painting has helped me improve my dexterity and given me a chance to be creative. But it’s not just about rehabilitation – it’s also been about having something to look forward to, passing the time in a positive way and connecting with others. I’ve made friendships that I will treasure forever.
I still have another operation ahead of me, and I’m not going to lie, it’s a bit daunting. But my ultimate goal is to return home, back to my garden and my family. I want to be able to get my hands back in the soil, to feel the joy of gardening once again.
No matter where life takes me from here, I will never forget my time at Horatio’s Garden. The colours and the sense of mindfulness I found there will stay with me always. But most of all, I’ll remember the kindness, the support, and the friendships I made along the way.
