A brave young woman has overcome a serious brain injury to take part in a sponsored swim.
Emma Locker, 35, who suffered head injuries in a car crash some years ago, took the plunge when residents of Pendine Park’s Highfield and Bryn Bella care homes in Wrexham, came up with the fundraising idea.
Activities Manager Gerry Humphreys soon had things organised at Chirk Leisure Centre’s pool and he praised the efforts of Emma and her swimming partners.
Gerry said: “Emma has only been with us for three months and is absolutely amazing. She puts her heart and soul into everything she tries and is really settling down well.
“Three of our residents took up the challenge along with Emma. However, one female resident has been unable to take part due to illness.
“Emma and fellow residents Russell Mills and Alan Hassall are hoping to raise more than £400 through their efforts.
“All the cash raised will will help pay for special treats for all residents of Pendine Park.”
Emma, originally from Chester, says she enjoys swimming and wanted to do something to raise some money so all the residents could enjoy a day out.
She said: “I used to do a lot of swimming before my accident. I think it’s a good way for everyone to get involved. I love it at Pendine Park, it’s brilliant, there’s always something going on and everyone has a good time because the staff are fantastic.”
Emma’s mum, Pat, came along to Chirk to watch her daughter complete her target of 20 lengths of the pool.
She said: “There is no doubt Emma is thriving at Pendine Park and we are really pleased. Emma is doing so much now that she simply wasn’t, or couldn’t, do before. Just being at Pendine Park is doing wonders for her self esteem, no doubt about it.
“I would also like to thank the customers of Holt Post Office, where I work, who have sponsored Emma. I live in Farndon and everyone knows her and have been so generous, I can’t thank them enough.”
Emma’s fellow Highfield and Bryn Bella Unit residents, Russell Mills, 53, and Alan Hassall, 64, also jumped in at the deep end to tackle the sponsored swim.
Russell, who hails from Garden City, Deeside, and is a former builder suffered life-changing injuries in a fall from scaffolding some years ago.
He said: “I have been at Pendine Park for four years now and love it. Everyone is so friendly and we are always kept busy doing something whether its painting pictures, swimming or other things.
“The staff are really good and we all love them to bits. It’s nice to know when you get up in the morning your going to be able to smile.”
Alan Hassall, formerly of Trelawynyd, has only recently moved into Pendine Park’s Highfield and Bryn Bella Units although he had enjoyed short stays as part of a respite care package in the past.
He said: “Ever since I suffered my stroke some years ago I have been going to Pendine Park quite regularly. I have moved in permanently now. I love it as there are always lots of people to help and always lots going on if you want to take part.
“I enjoy walking around the grounds every day to keep me fit and really enjoy swimming although I haven’t been able to come for a while as I had to have an operation on my ear.”
Tracey Smith, the Manager of the Highfield and Bryn Bella homes, added: “Our three residents have done really well and hopefully we will raise about £400 which is a brilliant achievement.
“Emma really threw herself into the challenge and was determined to complete her 20 length target which is fantastic.
“Alan and Russell have also done brilliantly well too and have completed the target number of widths. Well done to all three, they really are an inspiration.”
