New man is helping gran Mary breathe
GRANDMOTHER Mary Mills has a new man in her life - a little yellow rubber man whose powers are helping ease her rare lung condition.
At least once a day Mary, from Hazel Grove, turns to her tiny friend for assistance when she has difficulty breathing.
The unusual therapy was suggested by Tina Dennett, complementary therapist at St Ann’s Hospice, where Mary is a day care patient.
Mary, a retired nurse and midwife, explained: “I was sceptical at first but I’ve been surprised by the difference the little yellow man has made. I stretch his arms and somehow he helps me relax and control my breathing when it’s really bad.
“He’s under two inches tall but has been an enormous help since I got him a few weeks ago. He’s very therapeutic and his grin brings a smile to my face.”
Eight years ago Mary was diagnosed with a progressive condition called idiopathic pulmonary fibrosis - idiopathic means an unknown cause - and is cared for by husband Tony.
Tina Dennett said: “I’m so pleased that Mary has found this little fella useful. I call him Pan, which is short for pandiculation (the act of breathing/ yawning).
“The patient breathes in and out in time to the stretching and releasing of Pan’s limb and as they are in control of that movement, it helps them bring control back to their breath. We have several patients here at St Ann’s who’ve benefitted from using Pan, which is just one of the breathing techniques we use here.
“The colour is important as studies have indicated that yellow may help people remember instructions, so they’re more likely to use the techniques shown to them independently and not just when they’re with a therapist.”
Mary’s daughter Sian and granddaughter Ella (16) are taking part in the Manchester Midnight Walk on Friday, June 23, to thank the hospice for caring for Mary over the last 18 months.
The pair completed the 10k walk in 2016 and Sian is also hoping to persuade colleagues from PZ Cussons, where she works, to raise a team for this year’s walk.
To enter mmwalk.org.uk 0161 498 3663 go or to call