A woman who was left struggling to walk after a serious car accident has been nominated for a most inspirational member award at a Watford gym.

In August 2007 Sheila Degonzalez fell ill while driving and her car hit the kerb on a roundabout and rolled over.

Sheila was trapped in the car and she had to be cut out by firefighters.

She had suffered chipped a bone in her shoulder, a bleed on her brain and a detached retina, which meant she could only see with one eye. After the accident, Sheila was in hospital for four months and went through rehabilitation and a great deal of physio.

Wanting to be able to walk properly without any aids, Sheila went to Gymophobics in St Albans Road, Watford, and signed up for a "boot camp" session.

At first she was not able to bend her knees or move fully but she did what she could manage at her own pace. Sheila was unable to bend her fingers to hold the machines and getting on and off them was a very slow process.

She tried to keep up and do the same exercises but could only do the basic level movements.

Sheila then became a member at the gym and went on to to join other classes. She felt better, lost weight and is continuing to do so.

Sheila said she's full of energy, has a fantastic, active social life and swears never to leave the gym.

She said: "I feel great. I am able to walk to the supermarket without getting out of breath, my next goal is to walk to town."

Shenaz Ladhani, owner of Watford Gymophobics who nominated Sheila, said: "Sheila is always positive and smiling – her smile is infectious and we are just amazed at what Sheila has achieved in such a short time, when she comes to the Gym she lights up our day. We wish only the best for her."