A mother and PE teacher, Henrietta Paxton, has been left paralysed in a tragic gym accident. The incident occurred while she was doing squats, and the barbell slipped, causing a severe spinal injury. Despite attempts to catch it, she was crushed under the weight, resulting in a broken and dislocated spine at her T11 and T12 vertebrae.
Following the accident, Henrietta underwent surgery to stabilise her spine, but she is now paralysed from the waist down. Determined to regain movement in her legs, she is undergoing treatment and using a standing frame daily to strengthen her lower body. Despite the challenges and discomfort, she continues her gym sessions to work out her upper body.
Henrietta, who was a former pole vault athlete, is resolute in her determination not to let the accident diminish the quality of her life. While facing physical and emotional challenges, she remains optimistic about her recovery and aims to return to work as a PE teacher. She is also considering taking up wheelchair sports like basketball or rugby.
To adapt her home and cover private rehab costs, a JustGiving page has been set up with a fundraising goal of £230,000. The funds will go towards installing a platform lift, through floor lift, and modifying the bathroom to facilitate her mobility in a wheelchair. Henrietta hopes to be discharged from the hospital soon and return home to her family.
Despite the immense challenges she faces, Henrietta remains positive and grateful for the outpouring of support from friends and family. Her determination to overcome the obstacles and provide for her young children is unwavering. She emphasises the importance of staying motivated and taking each day as it comes in her rehabilitation journey.