Craig has been a resident at Water Mill House Care Home on Rose Lane in Hemel Hempstead since 2023. Inspired by watching the Winter Olympics, the 61-year-old shared his wish to ski again with the lifestyle team at the care home.
The care home arranged for Craig to be supported by a ski instructor from Disability Snowsports UK (DSUK), who ensured the experience was both safe and unforgettable.
In his younger years, Craig travelled extensively to renowned European resorts and even spent two winter seasons working as a ski guide in France.
“What a thrill, I honestly never thought I’d be putting on a pair of skis again!” said Craig.
“It’s a complete dream come true and has given me such a boost.”
Water Mill House provides expert care to adults with a range of support needs including rehab following a stroke, Muscular Dystrophy, Multiple Sclerosis and Parkinson’s, as well as residential, nursing, specialist dementia and end of life care.
Craig’s condition can affect bone and muscle health, so he works with a physiotherapist using the care home’s gym equipment to build and maintain his strength. His personalised physio programme includes weight bearing and neurological exercises.
Instructor Matt said: “Knowing that Craig had previously skied abroad, he picked it back up quickly as expected. He did really well and was completely in his element, skiing unassisted on the slopes.”
Fellow residents Gerry, Dinkar, and Rita joined Craig at the Snow Centre for their own ski experience.
Gerry Palmer, aged 77, is living with Multiple Sclerosis (MS) and had not been skiing since he was a teenager. Dinkar Patel, aged 89, who has a spinal injury from a fall, had never been skiing before.
Both gentlemen are wheelchair users so the specialist instructors from DSUK worked with them using tailored equipment to find the best way to get them both on the slopes. Instructors Peter and Katherine supported Gerry and Dinkar to ski using a sit-ski.
Rita Taylor, who is living with dementia, had never skied before but was excited to try a new experience.
“At 85, Rita is the oldest student I’ve ever taught,” added instructor Matt. “She did very well on the nursery slopes and, with time, would adapt confidently to ski independently. Not bad at all for a beginner!”
The home’s lifestyle coordinator, Colin Levy, said: “We’re really passionate about ensuring our residents can maintain their hobbies but also that they get to enjoy new experiences with us.
“We were keen to reintroduce a pastime into Craig’s life that he had once loved so much. The excitement and pure exhilaration on his face was a joy to see, and we are already planning our next ski trip.
“The day was filled with determination, encouragement and celebration — proving that age and disability are no barrier to adventure and that dreams can be reignited at any stage of life.”