Michael McCabe has taken part in the Get Active cycling sessions at the Pioneering Care Centre for 3 years and has been a volunteer cycle marshal for the majority of that time.
After 6 months as a participant Michael enjoyed it so much he became a PCP volunteer and completed his Cycle Marshal and First Aid training. He often leads 3 cycle sessions a week, up to 40 miles!
Turning 80 on the 29th October is especially significant for Michael as he was diagnosed with type 2 diabetes some years ago. He says his active lifestyle has resulted in his type 2 diabetes 6 monthly checks being clear for some time now and he feels fit, healthy and happy.
At the start of this month the nation was celebrating Older People’s Day (1 October) and the theme was ‘Full of Life’. The 14th November is also World Diabetes Day which aims to encourage people who are at risk or recently diagnosed with type 2 diabetes, to get help and support. Michael is a great ambassador for both and says:
“The regular activity keeps me busy, gets my joints moving and gives me a clean bill of health from the doctor. It also makes my family happy as they don’t have to worry about or look after me as much!
Being involved in the cycling group also has excellent social benefits; I have met some lovely people who are now close friends. I also enjoy getting to know new people and the camaraderie in the group is fantastic.”
Michael is also a member of U3A and regularly attends their health walks on Tuesday morning, adding another 9 miles onto his weekly activity! And he has recently attended training to become a Health Walk Leader.
Carol Gaskarth, PCP Chief Executive says “Michael is a great example of the achievements and contributions older people make to our community. As an organisation we strive to promote healthy lifestyles, give opportunities to combat loneliness, encourage volunteering and sharing skills with different generations. After all nearly everyone is an Older Person to someone!
As well as being a cycle marshal Michael also supports PCP at events and is a great promoter of the benefits of living an active lifestyle, whatever your age! A very happy 80th birthday Michael from everyone at PCP!”
If you would like further information on the services and activities available at PCP including the weekly cycling sessions, the Living Well, Taking Control reducing your risk of type 2 diabetes programme or volunteering please get in touch.
Contact the Pioneering Care Centre, Newton Aycliffe, tel: 01325 321234 email: enquiries@pcp.uk.net website: www.pcp.uk.net. Or find us on Twitter: @PioneeringCare and Facebook: /PCPandCentre