After surviving breast cancer and it being 12 months since finishing my radiation treatment, I was keen to see if a pool would help my aching bones. I have PTSD and can get a bit anxious trying new things and places so going to Tobruk Memorial Pool was a little daunting.

I had heard about Cérge and it was new in town so I was eager to see if it could help. I wasn’t sure if I would “fit” in the category, but I realised I have a barrier to swimming with it being over a year and with PTSD.

So, Cérge was happy to be a mate and help me out!

I sent the notification and got a message back to say they had received it which was comforting so I knew, they knew, I was on my way. It’s the little things. The pool was full of a different variety of people, many on their own doing the same thing.

I felt welcomed and everything that I needed was easy to access and easy to see as soon as I walked in.

I had a great swim, and the water was good on my bones. By the time I left I was well aware of the facilities on offer and felt comfortable in the environment.

Some of the larger spaces were a little daunting I had to take time to navigate. I’ve since realised there is an access guide and visual story, and this would be great to look at before even going to get a feel for the place.

I would like to also add in that the hand railings and the slope of the wheelchair access to gradually get into the pools were easy accessible and I didn’t struggle to get in or out which sometimes with not a lot of strength, I tend to do so.

As you can imagine I’m pretty sick of pain and feeling sick so I was feeling excited to try their heated pool as my bones are achy at the time and the warm water helps.

I am much more confident in returning with Cérge to make my access easier. The reception were well aware of Cérge and welcomed me. No anxieties were felt once I paid and was set to go in.

I think I was just anxious about the unknown and being my first time. Cérge is my bestie now so I have no worries going again soon, and I will!

Cérge would really improve my anxiety of going places alone, knowing I would be looked after.

I would like to experience more Cérge outlets and be involved more in depth of what Cérge can offer. This tiny experience today made me realise how much it helps when someone knows how to actually help you.

Imagine this at music events and festivals, it would be incredible and make soooo many more places accessible for so many more people!

Thank you Tobruk for taking on Cérge and thank you Cérge!