A Rotherham gym has been awarded an Epilepsy Action Gold Award for its support of a gym member who has epilepsy. Energie Fitness Club on Stoddart Way was presented with its award earlier today after being nominated by member Alison Burgin.
The Epilepsy Action Gold Awards aim to recognise outstanding contributions made to improving the lives of people with epilepsy. Energie Fitness Club has been chosen as a winner because of its work in supporting Alison, who has epilepsy, when she uses the gym and attends exercise classes.
Staff at Energie have always looked after Alison when she has a seizure during her gym sessions. They escort her away from equipment and stay with her until she is fully recovered. When Alison does exercise classes, the trainer makes sure she is always in full view.
Alison says: “I have always been an active person and enjoy a physical work-out. However, several gyms have prevented me from attending classes and even using the facilities because of my epilepsy. Since I joined Energie in 2003, they have been fantastic. The staff always ensure I am safe and allow me to attend classes. They make me feel safe knowing that they will help me if it is needed and, more importantly, they know exactly what to do if I do have a seizure.
“The staff at the gym will not be forgotten for the help and support they give and I’m delighted they have been presented with an Epilepsy Action Gold Award.”
Matt Burkhill, general manager at Energie, Rotherham, said: “We are delighted to receive this Epilepsy Action Gold Award. There’s no reason why anyone should not be able to keep fit or attend exercise classes, regardless of a health condition.”
Epilepsy Action celebrates its sixtieth anniversary this year. The charity directly helps more than 688,000 people every year through a range of services including its advice and information service, branch network, epilepsy specialist nurses and accredited volunteers.
For more information about Epilepsy Action and the Gold Awards, visit www.epilepsy.org.uk For more information about Energie Fitness Club, Rotherham, visit www.energiefitnessclubs.com/rotherham or call 01709 719 900.