A GROUND breaking scheme which helps patients to recover by improving their fitness is going from strength to strength. Exercise on Prescription started as a pilot project in Bolton operated by a few GP practices, but has become one of the great success stories of the statutory agencies which work together for the health of the community. Sister Anne Kaneen, Cardiac Rehabilitation Sister at the Royal Bolton Hospital and one of the speakers at a conference organised by the main players in the scheme - Bolton's Leisure Services and Wigan and Bolton Health Authority - is a great supporter of exercise on prescription.

GP's refer patients for a programme of exercise at the nearest leisure centre at a reduced rate - and in many cases the formula has proved to be a life-saver.

Now Anne is working on an extension of the scheme, referring people for exercise at Bolton Excel Leisure Centre once they have completed phase three of the rehabilitation programme at the Royal Bolton and are recovering from a heart attack.

"Already the signs are that exercise in this way really does play its part in aiding a patient's recovery," she said.

"Many of the people I see wouldn't dream of exercise themselves but more and more patients are cottoning on to the very real health benefits of this scheme."

The theory that there is more to recovery and good health than drugs is central to the scheme's growth.

Dr Peter Elton, Director of Public Health with Wigan and Bolton Health Authority, has been involved from the start, along with Bolton Metro's Leisure Services.

He firmly believes in the importance of partnership, such as this, and in the prevention of ill health, rather than the prescribing of drugs.

"I am not saying drugs do not work, but there has to be something more which puts the patient in control which deserves our recognition," he said.

Anne Gough is a stunning example of how exercise and positive thinking can reap dividends.

Anne was diagnosed as having breast cancer in July last year and six weeks ago underwent a mastectomy.

Anne, who lives in Heaton, is already back in the gym working through her daily routine of exercise, stretch and relaxation techniques.

"It's not all over, far from it. I have radiotherapy to go through yet, but I firmly believe in the power of positive thought," she said.

"Ever since this was diagnosed I have refused to regard myself as a victim and believe that a great deal of how I feel today is down to my attitude and the help of staff at the Excel Centre to work on a programme of exercise suitable to me."

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