A Red Cross Wheelchair made all the difference to Brenda’s recovery
How quick support from the Red Cross sped up Brenda’s recovery after she was discharged from hospital
When 87-year-old Brenda was discharged from hospital after several weeks, her daughter, Sharman, hired a wheelchair from the British Red Cross so she could get out and about.
Being able to go out with friends and family lifted Brenda’s spirits, boosted her confidence and gave her back her independence.
My mum is so grateful for the wheelchair which has made such a difference to her.
Hiring the wheelchair
Hiring the wheelchair was quick and simple for Sharman.
“It was brilliant. Everything went smoothly. They delivered it, the box is quite neat. It was all straightforward.”
“(When it arrived) There were instructions. It was very easy to use and it can go in the boot of the car. It's very portable. We couldn’t have asked for better.”
The family heard about the Red Cross hire service from a hospital staff member. Without that tip, things could have been much harder.
Buying a wheelchair didn't make sense for short term use and local options weren't great. Being able to hire one online made life so much easier.
How the wheelchair helped Brenda’s recovery
Sharman says the wheelchair sped up her mum’s recovery. Because it came so quickly, it meant that Brenda could get out and about weeks earlier than if they’d waited for one from the occupational therapist.
They were told they would have to wait 3 weeks to a month for a wheelchair. Fortunately for Brenda and the family, the Red Cross wheelchair arrived in just two days.
Sharman explained: “It’s been a huge boost being able to go to the cafes on the beach, visit mum’s friend, go to the shops, and get in and out of the car for a drive. Sadly, my dad passed away in the summer, but we've been able to go to the cemetery which means a lot.”
“I’ve seen a big difference in her motivation and how she feels. She's still having physio, and it has an impact in terms of giving her a boost to be positive and push forward. It’s good for her wellbeing in general which has a knock-on effect on her recovery.”
The whole family has benefitted from the impacts of the wheelchair. They can support her through her recovery and get back to normal family life much quicker.
Would they recommend Red Cross wheelchair hire?
Sharman would “highly recommend” the Red Cross wheelchair hire service to anybody else who finds themselves in a similar situation to her family.
It couldn't be better. It's exactly what you want and just the service that's needed when you leave the hospital. It speeds things up and makes life easier.
Sharman adds: “Being without your mobility when you’re used to it gets you down. She really enjoys getting out and she’s really appreciative and wants to say thank you to the Red Cross, as does our family.”
Hiring a wheelchair from the Red Cross
The British Red Cross offers short-term wheelchair hire for just £22 a week – no hidden fees. A range of wheelchairs are available, for adults and children with accessories at no extra cost. Delivery and collection can be arranged for a £30 one-off fee, with next-weekday delivery in many areas. Support may be available if you’re struggling with the cost.