Olympic Games come to Cannock
Date of release: 9 August 2024
There might be more than 400 miles between Paris and Cannock but that hasn’t stopped staff and patients taking part in the greatest sporting event in the world.
Fairoak Ward at Cannock Chase Hospital hosted its own version of the Olympic Games, encouraging exercise to support patients’ recovery, improve their mood, social interaction and health and wellbeing.
The ward, which specialises in neurological rehabilitation and care of the elderly, was decorated in flags and a themed lunch was served for patients in the afternoon.
The games were modified and included shotput, javelin, hockey and cycling.
The craft group, also based on the ward, made its own Olympic rings which were also used to decorate the ward.
Danielle Hanley, Physiotherapist at The Royal Wolverhampton NHS Trust and co-organiser of the event, said: “Having seen the country swept up in Olympic patriotism, we didn’t want our patients missing out.
“Everyone had a fantastic day. It really helped lift the patients spirits and the staff loved getting involved as well.
“Keeping with the theme of the Olympics and Paralympics, we wanted to be inclusive to our patients and encourage some competitiveness between them, to see who can go for gold.
“It was fantastic to see so many smiles and the patients did so well.”
Jean Marshall, 88 from Cannock, is currently an inpatient on Fairoak following a hemiarthroplasty - half of a joint replacement.
She said: “I found the day very enjoyable, and I particularly liked the activities with the other patients on the ward.”
John Buckley, 74, from Hednesford said the games helped motivate him.
He added: “I really enjoyed the Olympics in Cannock. It was motivating towards my recovery, and I used my weaker stroke arm in the shooting activity which I am proud of.”
Nick King, 51, is also recovering from a stroke and having rehabilitation care after his left leg was amputated below his knee. He said: “I feel the activities were adapted to meet my new physical need. I enjoyed engaging and participating with members of staff and other patients.”
ENDS
- For further information, please email amy.downward@nhs.net
