Dawn’s Comeback: From Hospital Bed to Ballroom Dance Floor

Introduction

Meet Dawn: Dawn is a vibrant 68-year-old who has been living with chronic leukaemia since 2003. A sociable and active individual, she loves meeting up with friends and family, going out for meals, and is a keen ballroom dancer. Dawn also enjoys keeping fit through Pilates, walking, and swimming.

The progress I’ve made has been incredible. I’m really confident with walking now, and I feel so much stronger in my Pilates and dance classes. I never thought I’d be able to get back to doing what I love, but here I am! Dawn, Lancaster

The Challenge

The Problem: In August 2023, Dawn faced one of the toughest challenges of her life. After spending seven weeks in hospital undergoing chemotherapy and a clinical trial for her leukaemia—three weeks of which she was bedbound—Dawn developed foot drop, an inability to lift her foot. Initially affecting her right foot and later spreading to the left, this condition significantly impaired her mobility. Although it didn’t cause pain, the foot drop, combined with severe swelling around her ankles, made it nearly impossible for Dawn to walk without assistance. Further complications from her treatment and limited mobility led to severely low potassium levels, weight loss, and general physical deconditioning. Dawn, once active and independent, found herself unable to walk without a stick and the support of her husband. The life she loved, particularly her passion for ballroom dancing, seemed out of reach.

Treatment and Progress

The Plan: Recognising the seriousness of Dawn’s condition, we first referred her to her consultant to ensure it was safe to proceed with treatment. With clearance obtained, we developed a plan focused on soft tissue massage, gentle movements, and a progressive exercise programme. Our short-term goal was to help Dawn regain her independence, and the long-term goal was to get her back on the ballroom dance floor. Given the uncertainty surrounding the cause of her foot drop following the clinical trial, we could not guarantee the outcome of the treatment but were committed to doing everything possible to help Dawn recover.

Step by Step: Dawn’s journey through treatment was marked by determination and steady progress.

  • 3-4 Weeks: Dawn began to move around her home more easily and independently, even managing the stairs. She noticed that she could wiggle her toes and move her foot up and down slightly, a promising sign of improvement.
  • 6 Weeks: With growing confidence, Dawn resumed Pilates via Zoom, making modifications to gradually build her strength. Her appetite improved, and she began to regain some weight.
  • 8 Weeks: Dawn was able to leave the house independently, using a walking stick only for reassurance. The swelling around her ankles had disappeared.
  • 12 Weeks: Dawn reported better sleep and minimal use of the walking stick. She tried swimming again and even had a private one-on-one dance session. A weekend away in Grasmere proved that her mobility was returning.
  • 14 Weeks: Nearly full ankle movement was regained. Dawn attended her first face-to-face Pilates session and even participated in a tea dance with her ballroom dancing group, enjoying both the social aspect and a little dancing.
  • 16 Weeks: Dawn was regularly attending Pilates and swimming sessions and continued with private ballroom sessions, progressing slowly and with some modifications.
  • 20 Weeks: Dawn no longer needed her walking stick. Her increased activity led to a better appetite, and she began to slowly regain the weight she had lost.
  • 23 Weeks: Dawn was walking normally, and a nutritionist’s review showed that her arm and calf strength was now above baseline. She was thrilled to return to group dance classes, feeling stronger and more confident than ever.

The Outcome

Dawn’s life after treatment is a testament to her resilience and the power of tailored physiotherapy. She has returned to all the activities she loves, including Pilates, swimming, and ballroom dancing, with only a few minor modifications. What once seemed impossible is now her reality.

Dawn’s journey was not without setbacks, but her determination to return to the things she loved, especially ballroom dancing, kept her motivated. Her regular appointments provided a space to address any concerns and adjust her treatment plan, ensuring she stayed on track to achieve her goals.

Dawn’s journey has been one of the highlights of my career. Seeing how much her life had been impacted and the transformation she achieved is truly inspiring. Helping her regain her independence and get back to ballroom dancing has been a privilege. Jess Hillard, Therapist & Clinic Manager

A Brighter Future

When Dawn first came to the clinic, she was unable to walk without support. Through a combination of soft tissue massage and a home exercise programme, we worked together to progressively restore her mobility and strength. Dawn is now confident and thriving, back to enjoying her passion for ballroom dancing. If you’re facing similar challenges and want to explore how physiotherapy can help you reclaim your life, reach out to us today to book an appointment at your nearest True Physio clinic. We’re here to support you every step of the way.