How community supported Marie-Anne's road to recovery
This Mental Health Awareness Week, we're highlighting the importance of community-the theme for this year-and how it plays a vital role in supporting mental and physical wellbeing.
We spoke to Marie-Anne August, Corporate Events and Engagement Lead, about her personal journey and the community that has supported her following a life-changing health emergency.
In April last year, Marie-Anne suffered an aortic dissection - an often fatal condition that required emergency surgery and marked the beginning of a long and difficult recovery. A lifelong fitness enthusiast and active CrossFit gym member, she suddenly found herself unable to take part in something that had always been central to her identity-exercise.
The gym was more than just a place to work out-it was my community, she says. When I couldn't exercise any more, I lost more than fitness. I lost that daily support and motivation from the people around me.
Despite what had happened, that community didn't disappear. Instead, her gym rallied around her. They kept in touch, supported her recovery, and made sure she remained connected, even when she couldn't train.
From checking in on her mental health, to organising monthly walks and encouraging simple habits like getting outside, eating well, and staying hydrated, they made sure she was never alone.
Marie-Anne added: They created a monthly gym walk so I had something to look forward to which is really lovely and I also stay part of the events that happen at the gym to cheer my friends on.
I've also made a really great group of friends and outside the gym activities. We also hang out and do things like go for coffee or dinner.
Now back at the gym and taking part in cardiac rehab sessions, Marie-Anne continues to work on her recovery with the continued support of her fitness community.
Movement is essential, not just for physical health, but for mental wellbeing too, she says.
Even if you're nervous, joining a gym or just getting out for a walk can be life changing. You don't have to do it alone-find your community.