Linda Kerry's story

"When I was younger I attended Apsley Wood Special School. During my physiotherapy sessions I discovered I had a natural talent for sports. When coaches came to visit the school I soon found myself competing on a regional and then a national level. I specialise in the throwing events such as shot put, discus and javelin.

My Paralympic debut was at the 1992 games in Barcelona and I won a bronze medal in the shot put finals. Four years later I represented Great Britain at the Atlanta games . This time I was in the discus final – and I won gold!

I was delighted to compete for the third time in Sydney in 2002 and achieved my second gold medal, for the club throw, and a bronze for javelin.

Competing in the Paralympics was a brilliant experience. The squad were great at sorting things out for me, especially making travel arrangements. I achieved what I wanted to achieve and I’ve been to countries that I didn’t think I would ever see.

I've stayed at other Vitalise Centes, and my first time at Netley has been excellent – I’ve been able to go out, I get really good care and I know there is always someone there when I need them. I would definitely visit again, in fact I’ve just booked in for a Christmas Shopping week. That way I can be prepared for Christmas and, of course, buy my regular carers presents whilst they’re not with me.”

Lynda stayed at Vitalise Netley during the 2008 Beijing Olympics.

Alex Burke's story

“I heard about Vitalise from a friend. I have Spina Bifida and my parents help care for me.When I came to Vitalise for the first time they went abroad for the first time in 15 years.They know I am 100% safe.

You become a different person when you’re here – you become who you really are.When you come through the doors you forget your wheelchair exists, you almost feel able-bodied for the week. I feel literally loved when I’m here, I know the staff look forward to seeing me and I get an extremely warm welcome.

You go to some respite places and you can tell they’re doing things for you because they have to.They think you can’t think or feel or do anything for yourself.The staff at Vitalise Jubilee Lodge treat us like a family, you can tell they love their job because it shines through.They want to spend time with you. This place is a family, it’s the only way to sum it up.

It recharges me to such an extent that I’m living off the high of it for months. I’ve been places on holiday here that I’d never imagine going to in my life, you experience things that just blow you away. My parents are so pleased that I’m going places they could never take me. Most of us are on benefits so we couldn’t go to these places without the donations to Vitalise.

I can’t speak highly enough of Vitalise Jubilee Lodge. There’s nowhere else I feel so relaxed, so cared for. For the small amount of time you’re here, you’re safe, you’re free, you’re human.”

Toni-Marie Barker's story

"I have been a regular guest at Vitalise Netley Waterside House for about four years now! I can say hand on heart that being able to be away from home safe in the knowledge that I will receive 24 hour care of the highest quality means so much to my family and me.

At Netley I am able to spend my time in a beautiful setting with people I have come to know very well, in a relaxed environment, which offers me the freedom to choose how my care is delivered, and how my holiday is spent.

It is nice to come to a place where I am accepted for who I am regardless of my disability. Indeed I have made many life long friends and on a personal level it has reinforced my view that we must all strive to live life to the full; no matter what obstacles we may face. Long may the staff and volunteers at each centre continue to give more than they could ever realise to myself and the many other guests who I am sure love their holidays with Vitalise as much as I do."

Do you have a story to tell?

If you'd like the chance to feature on this page or see your story in Let's Vitalise magazine, why not get in touch and let us know about your Vitalise experience.

Write to us at:
Communications Team
Vitalise
12 City Forum
250 City Road
London EC1V 8AF

Email the communications team