A woman from Watford set aside her walking stick after being reliant on it for 17 years, thanks to help and support from a local hospice.

Monica Davis, 74, from Watford, has been attending Peace Hospice Care’s Starlight Outpatient groups since 2015.

Monica has been diagnosed with cancer twice, and has three collapsed vertebrae and severe back pain as a result.

Following her second diagnosis, she was referred to Peace Hospice Care by her GP for rehabilitation and pain management. Since then, Monica has attended a number of outpatient groups for patients with life-limiting illnesses, including the new Nordic Walking group and the Next Step exercise class.

Monica said: “In May 2017, I joined the hospice’s Nordic Walking group. At first I was apprehensive as I felt nervous using the poles instead of my walking stick.

“After a few sessions it had really reduced my back pain, as a result of my improved posture. My confidence and independence has also increased.

“I now no longer rely on my walking stick – I feel liberated.”

Starlight manager Joanna Marovitch added: “Earlier this year, as a part of Peace Hospice Care’s re-launch of its outpatient service, we introduced Nordic Walking and other groups.

“Attendances for the groups have increased by 13 per cent compared to the previous year. That means that we are helping more people than ever before with wellbeing and rehabilitation support through our workshops, one-to-one interventions and groups.”