Rower Thomas rehabs by the sea
An injury from an everyday chore led 77-year-old Thomas Henderson to KCHFT’s Whitstable and Tankerton Community Hospital to recover, after a lengthy stay in Queen Elizabeth The Queen Mother Hospital, Margate.
Born and bred in Folkestone, Thomas is relieved to be on the right track to getting back home after injuring his knees while putting out his wheelie bins: “I couldn’t believe such a simple thing that I do, week in week out, albeit on a steep cobbled path, could cause such a palaver!
“I didn’t even fall but the pain and swelling in my joints got worse and I ended-up in hospital three days later; little did I know that’s where I would stay for several weeks.”
After numerous scans, tests and treatments, Thomas was diagnosed with Pseudogout, a form of arthritis. He was transferred to our community hospital by the sea for therapy and rehabilitation, something the former Merchant Navy man couldn’t be happier about.
He said: “It’s good to be staying in a smaller hospital close to home. We’re a stone’s throw from the beach here and my confidence is growing day-by-day so I hope to take a stroll on the slopes soon.”
Thomas joined the Merchant Navy at 16 and, as a fit and active man, his favourite hobbies are water sports. He is a keen rower and member of his local club and also enjoys windsurfing and diving.
The team at Whitstable and Tankerton Community Hospital works alongside patients, carers and families to help people regain their independence and continue to get better in their own homes.
With his care package in place and outpatient clinic services available, Thomas is looking forward to getting home to spend time with his grandchildren.
