Colin's story
Just as he was starting out on a career in horticulture, a stroke robbed Colin of his mobility, dexterity and memory. He could hardly write. Or draw. The right side of his body just didn’t want to work.
Colin started coming to Thrive’s Battersea Garden Project, in Battersea Park, London. With extensive support, Colin was given the power and self-belief to rebuild his life. We worked with Colin and helped him regain the use of his limbs, improve his memory, make new friends and interact with others.
Colin now has enough movement and co-ordination to use tools and even write a diary with his right hand. He digs using his right foot. He weaves willow into the most beautiful obelisks, which he sells. These breakthroughs haven’t just improved Colin’s physical condition – they have given him renewed confidence about the future.
Colin: "I really value coming to Thrive, the progress I’ve made in my life, and the new friends I have now."
Jimmy's story
It wasn’t long ago that Jimmy was a quiet and withdrawn young man whose mental health issues meant that to him, life felt rather dark. He came across as uncooperative and difficult to get to know.
Jimmy didn’t like being with other people and he ended up isolated from the other gardeners at the Thrive Battersea Garden Project. Jimmy’s serious attitude however had some positives, he was hardworking and he got on with the job, but he just couldn’t connect with others.
Working at Thrive helped Jimmy open up and because he felt happier, he found it easier to relax and allow other people in. Jimmy’s confidence grew and he started to look beyond his own garden bed for things to do – he found that he wanted to work with others and in different areas of the garden. By broadening his horizons he gained confidence and purpose and became a valued and popular member of the team.
Jimmy now comes to Thrive two days every week, he is keen to improve his horticulture skills, and wants to set up his own gardening business. He also volunteers as a helper at a local drop-in centre. Jimmy has come along way and will tell you that now he only sees a brighter life and a positive future.
Frances' Story
Frances comes to Thrive to help with her depression, stress and anxiety. She also has obsessive compulsive disorder (OCD) which is an anxiety related condition. This makes it difficult for Francis to leave her flat, to socialise and work with other people...
Read Frances' Story