Abi has always been someone who sets big goals. After a spinal injury worsened her rare Ehlers-Danlos syndrome, her health became unstable, her rehabilitation stalled, and her confidence took a knock.
With nurse-led support at Maypole Grove, Abi has rebuilt her independence, regained stability, and is back to planning a future that feels exciting again.
She’s now trying new experiences, taking on meaningful responsibilities, and ticking off the ambitions on her ever-growing 'life list'.
From hospital setbacks to a fresh start
Abi was diagnosed with Ehlers-Danlos syndrome (EDS) at 12, a rare connective tissue condition that causes pain, joint instability, and fatigue.
At 22, she sustained a spinal injury that led to partial paralysis and increased clinical complexity, including bowel dysmotility, Fowler’s Syndrome, and serious cardiovascular risks.
After a prolonged hospital stay, she moved to a rehabilitation placement that couldn’t meet her complex needs.
Her physiotherapy plateaued, social interaction was limited, and her mental health began to decline.
Moving to Maypole Grove marked a turning point.
Complex care that builds confidence
When Abi arrived, the team carried out a comprehensive assessment and developed a personalised care plan built around her health and her goals.
Her care is nurse-led, with proactive management of EDS, spasms, continence needs, and cardiovascular risks.
A medication review improved her spasm control and comfort, and colleagues are trained to spot early warning signs of complications.
In hospital, Abi required one-to-one observations due to the risk of dislocations and severe spasms. Now, that level of observation has reduced, promoting independence while keeping her safe.
“I know I’m in safe hands, which has built my confidence in going out and trying new things.”
From anxious to adventurous
When Abi first moved in, she was nervous about getting out of bed, and leaving the home felt overwhelming.
With consistent support, she gradually rebuilt her confidence.
Now she’s attending concerts, visiting Chester Zoo, shopping at Cheshire Oaks, and spending quality time with her family, who’ve been trained to support her complex needs.
She’s also on a mission to try as many accessible sports as possible, already ticking off archery, bowling, sailing, and swimming.
Rebuilding strength and everyday independence
Abi is determined to improve her mobility.
With regular physiotherapy and trained team support between sessions, she can now stand using a stand aid, working towards her goal of self-transferring.
She’s also developing everyday living skills, including doing her laundry, making drinks, organising her space, and taking a more active role in her personal care.
Each small step adds up to greater control over her life.
“I’m so grateful for the opportunities Maypole Grove has given me to enjoy life again. I do things now that I never thought I’d be able to do.”
Finding purpose as a Service User Ambassador
As a Service User Ambassador, Abi represents the people she lives with on the Service User Council, making sure their voices are heard and their ideas are acted on.
She helps to plan events, supports fundraising initiatives, and works alongside colleagues to improve everyday life in the home.
The role has helped her grow in confidence, build friendships, and rediscover her sense of purpose.
She’s now influencing change, supporting others, and proving to herself that she still has so much to offer.
“Being an ambassador has got me talking to other residents, and I’ve made lots of new friends.
"I help staff to complete the menus for the unit and talk to people who are bed-bound.
"I’m also starting a monthly Q&A with staff, to help people get to know each other.”
What's next for Abi
Abi’s ambitions are proudly displayed on her bedroom wall as a ‘life list’.
On it are goals like completing the ZipWorld zip wire, watching England Rugby at Twickenham, and learning to drive again.
Her condition may shape her journey, but it doesn’t define her future - and she’s determined to keep ticking things off.