Cardiff Man Defies COPD Odds Thanks to Eastern Leisure Centre's Life-Changing Programme

Cardiff, Wales – At 83 years old, John Young has become a shining example of resilience and determination in the face of chronic illness. John's journey with deteriorating lung health began in 2007 while managing land in West Wales, when he first noticed troubling shortness of breath. That moment marked a turning point — he gave up smoking and began a long path to recovery.

Before the pandemic, John relocated to Cardiff, where doctors diagnosed him with Chronic Obstructive Pulmonary Disease (COPD), a result of long-term tobacco use and asbestos exposure during his time working in the Royal Navy Dockyards. 
Following his diagnosis, John was referred to Llandough Hospital, where he completed a Pulmonary Rehabilitation Course and began making progress. However, the onset of the COVID-19 pandemic brought new challenges. John contracted COVID-19 along with other lung infections, which led to a significant decline in his lung function. 

Despite being told his condition could not be cured, John's COPD consultant introduced him to the Healthwise programme at Eastern Leisure Centre. Under the expert guidance of instructor Anthony, John began a tailored exercise programme designed to manage his condition. 

"It was daunting at first," John admits. "But with encouragement and the right support, I started to see real improvements — not just in my stamina and balance, but in my overall mental wellbeing." 

After successfully completing the Healthwise exercise referral programme, John transitioned into Eastern Leisure Centre’s mainstream fitness programme. He now proudly participates in four activities a week, including gym sessions and circuit classes. 

"Bottom line, the exercise referral scheme and the support of BETTER Eastern Leisure Centre and its exceptional instructors have proved to be my life saver," John says. "Without them, I would have no quality of life." 

John extends his heartfelt thanks to the staff at Eastern Leisure Centre for their ongoing care, encouragement, and professionalism. His story stands as a testament to the power of community health programmes and the vital role they play in transforming lives. 

If you have a member story that you would like to share email eastern@gll.org