December 8, 2015
The recently upgraded Murgon Jubilee Swimming Pool has given Peter Law a new lease on life.
The Murgon man, who was diagnosed with multiple sclerosis in 2007, has been using the pool daily to improve his muscle tone, strength and energy.
The former truck driver and takeaway shop operator was forced to give up work more than five years ago due to the severity of his condition, which has caused muscle wasting, weakness, vision problems and extreme fatigue.
He now uses a combination of an electronic wheelchair, scooter and wheelie walker to get around, and is cared for by his partner Roxanne.
“It’s the most debilitating disease because your mind is active but your body no longer allows you to do anything,” he said.
“I was once a fit and strong man but MS has turned me into a weakling. It’s very frustrating.”
However Mr Law, 56, has grown stronger in body and mind since the Murgon Pool reopened last month.
The $1.2 million upgrade included the addition of a Para Mobility Pool and Spa Hoist which allows people in wheelchairs or with physically limiting conditions to get in and out of pools easily, without any manual lifting.
This has enabled Mr Law to exercise safely for the first time since his diagnosis.
“My exercise physiologist designed exercises for me to do in the water because it would be weightless, and there is no risk of falling over,” he said.
“I could get into the pool okay but I couldn’t get out without using the hoist. I reckon it’s a great service for the community.”
Mr Law visits the pool daily from Monday to Friday, and his exercises include walking laps of the pool and doing squats.
At first, manager Lori Hall had to help him use the hoist to get out of the pool.
“I told Lori my goal was to get out of the pool by myself without using that thing,” he says.
“Now I can manage to get out by myself, so the difference is amazing. My goal has changed to getting fitter and stronger.”
Mr Law says his muscle tone, energy and mood has improved since he started his daily exercise routine in October.
“It was hard at first, but I look forward to my pool sessions now,” he said.
“I think more people should know about the hoist and the facilities. There are toilets and showers for people in wheelchairs and scooters.
“It’s wonderful. There must be a lot of people in the community who would benefit.”
There is no charge to use the hoist, although it is advisable to phone manager Lori Hall to ensure a trained staff member is available to help at the time residents wish to use the equipment.
For details, phone (07) 4168-1754.
