Scarlette accessed the charity in 2023 following a traumatic brain injury that had a life-changing impact on both her and the family.
Scarlette’s goal – regaining her independence
Scarlette’s goal was to regain her independence. Before the brain injury, she had worked as a lifeguard at Flamingo Land and was determined to return to the job she loved as soon as possible.
As a result of the traumatic brain injury, Scarlette faced significant challenges with her mobility, vision, and speech. During the early days of her recovery, she underwent daily physiotherapy and, with the support of her family, was determined to establish a regular exercise routine.
The road to recovery and accessing services offered by P.A.U.L For Brain Recovery
Following Scarlette’s brain injury, her family found themselves in an unfamiliar situation, seeking help, guidance, and a better understanding of the challenges they were facing and how these might affect Scarlette.
During the initial stages of Scarlette’s recovery at Hull Royal Infirmary, one of the ward nurses provided the family with a copy of our welcome pack and suggested they contact us. After reading through the documentation, they decided to reach out to us and access our services.
Since accessing the charity almost twelve months ago and attending our Sam’s Safari social session, Scarlette, a big ABBA fan, has also participated in our music therapy sessions and enjoyed the sing-alongs.
The family has greatly benefited from the peer-to-peer support we provide. Scarlette has also received advice and support from one of “Our Heroes,” who has experienced similar challenges.
Scarlette’s sister, India, decided to show her support by running with Scarlette in this year’s 10K Charity Run, joined by a record number of service users. This was a proud moment for the family.
Heather, Scarlette’s Mum: says: “We are so glad we accessed P.A.U.L For Brain Recovery services. It was lovely to see both girls running in the 10k charity run and supporting the charity.”
Scarlette says: “P.A.U.L For Brain Recovery provides me with a safe place to share my experiences and has helped me develop closer relationships with other service users. I have really enjoyed Sam’s Safari and the music therapy sessions; they both helped improve my well-being.”
Scarlette’s journey has been nothing short of remarkable. She has had to overcome several challenges, initially regaining her mobility with aid, then unaided, and regaining her speech and confidence.
Back to work
With focus, determination and the support of others, Scarlette recently returned to her job as a lifeguard for three days, which is truly amazing. The P.A.U.L For Brain Recovery team is delighted to support Scarlette on her journey.
What’s next
Scarlette has recently started driving lessons and has several more challenges in mind. She hopes to tackle the Yorkshire Three Peaks Challenge and the Bike & Hike event in Ibiza in the future.
Having been in the army cadets for five years, Scarlette loves fitness and the outdoors and would like to pursue a career as a personal trainer. To support her future ambitions, Scarlette will start a one-year Gym & Group Exercise Instructor course at York College and University Centre later this year.