A trip to Center Parcs helped Mary overcome a long-held fear of swimming pools as she took her first dip in a hot tub for several decades.
Mary, who is supported at Swanton’s Oaktree service, had a bad experience in a swimming pool when she was younger and hasn’t felt safe enough to step into the water since.
However, during a trip to Center Parcs Longleat, Mary took the plunge and found the courage to get into the hot tub at her luxury cabin.
It was a massive achievement, and Mary was thrilled to have made such fantastic progress.
Scheme Manager Joelle Daniel said everyone at Oaktree is super proud of Mary for overcoming her fears.
Joelle said: “This is an amazing moment for Mary – she’s tried time and again to conquer her fear of pools.
“Over the years, she’s made several attempts to get into pools, but she’s always struggled with her anxiety levels as soon as her feet hit the water.
“Seeing her in the hot tub and enjoying herself is fantastic.”
Mary was at Center Parcs with her key worker, Denise, who has supported her for 13 years.
They were joined by Martin, who is also supported at Oaktree, and his key worker, Fion.
It was thanks to the support of Denise and Fion, and encouragement from Martin, that helped Mary make this huge step forward.
Joelle said: “Denise and Fion were so supportive and encouraging to Mary, which helped to ease her anxiety and give her confidence.
“It meant a lot to them that both Mary and Martin could make the most of having this terrific hot tub for their own personal use.
“When Mary got in, she kept asking them if they were proud of her and if they’d tell everyone back at Oaktree that she’s managed to get in.
“So, we just want to say that we are all incredibly proud of you, Mary!”
