Woman praises care workers after clifftop visit

A woman has praised those who helped her rehabilitation after she visited a favourite beauty spot despite having blood cancer and experiencing a life-changing stroke.

Hazell Wilson, from Margate, was diagnosed with cancer in 2021 before having a stroke which affected her speech, mobility and daily life.

It left her unable to leave her house, but she had one goal - to get into the car and go to the clifftops that she loves at Palm Bay.

Physiotherapist Harry Hopkins, from Kent Community Health Foundation Trust, said: "From the first assessment, it was clear how important it was for Hazell to regain as much independence as possible at home."

After the assessment, a care plan was formed and the ultimate goal of getting Hazel into a car was formed.

She said: "I thought, hang on a minute. I've done nothing for two years and now you're telling me I'm going to get into the car.

"It did feel daunting, but I think that onus on me, to be in charge, in my own home, of my future, really helped me to push forward."

The 76-year-old recently made it to the clifftop walk she loves with her family, which she said was an incredible moment for all of them.

Hazell added: "Getting back to the clifftops with my family meant so much.

"All the teams that have stepped in to help me have been brilliant and I know I can refer myself back to them if I need it."

Her partner, Tony, said: "The biggest thing they gave us was hope.

"When you're dealing with illness for such a long time, it's easy to focus on what you've lost.

"The team helped us focus on what Hazell could still achieve."

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