Wellness Center thearaputic pool makes life in a wheelchair easier

“Life in a wheelchair is difficult - getting to a therapeutic pool to help build muscle strength shouldn’t be,” said Mel Sampson of rural Eagle Grove.

Sampson has been wheelchair bound for the past seven months after a fall down his steps. Although he was diagnosed with noropathy 20 years ago (a weakening of the nerves in the legs) Sampson was always able to remain physically active...until that one dreadful day when his legs gave out while going up the stairs.

“That seemed to cap it off. My walking days seemed to be done for good,” said Sampson somberly.

He discovered, however, that he was still able to walk in the pool while doing warm water therapy at the Wellness Center in Eagle Grove - an 880 to 900 pool built to meet the standards of the Arthritis Foundation.

“That pool has been a godsend to me because I can walk in it...I can even hold onto a rail and run in place in the water.”

For the full story, see this week's Eagle Grove Eagle. Subscribe by calling 1-800-558-1244 ext 122 or email Deb at circulation@midamericapub.com or by clicking here.