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At the age of 45 I discovered that due to undiagnosed hip dysplasia, all the activities I’ve done all my life and wear and tear from Policing, I needed double hip replacement.

Having managed this situation for a few years the chronic pain and severe deterioration finally caught up with me and in 2022 I had my full right hip replaced and 2023 my left one.

As a retired Police officer, for a very (VERY nominal sum) I have access to the Police treatment centres.

These centres, which are a registered charity, are residential centres of excellence for physical and mental rehabilitation for serving and retired officers.

Both last year and this I have attended the North Police treatment centre in Auchterarder, Perthshire for post surgery treatment and rehabilitations for my hips.

Castlebrae, their team of 1st class Physio’s and gym staff have been the icing on the cake for a process that has literally been life changing for me.

From the gardeners that maintain the beautiful grounds, the cleaning staff who keep the place immaculate, Nursing staff who monitor your overall health and suitability, counsellors, holistic therapists, amazing reception staff (all the background office staff I don’t meet) the amazing team of Physio’s, physical tuition staff who tailor programs both in the gym and state of the art hydrotherapy pool, the chefs and restaurant staff who fill you with the most amazing selection of meals and right up to the boss man himself they are all without exception, the most fantastic, friendly, helpful and professional group of people.

As most of you who know me well know that I do love a good challenge to get my teeth into and I’m never one to miss the chance to raise money for a good cause and the Police treatment charity (like many others) was really impacted by COVID.

So this time, as part of my journey back, I will be walking the West Highland way (all 96 miles) and whilst I don’t think I’m quite ready to do the ultra version of this, my new hips and I will complete it in seven days along with my pal Cat and whoever can join me for each leg!

To give myself time to fully rehabilitate my hips and and to properly train I will do this between 23rd-30th August 2024.

A lovely additional poignant aspect is that I will be walking it with my Dads cherished shepherds crook - he gave me this in his last few weeks and asked me to keep it walking for him.

I spoke to my Mum who said the West Highland way was a walk her and Dad always wanted to do - well he might not be doing it but his stick will!

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