Dancing: Hannah Style

A couple of years ago I discovered that if I concentrated on moving with all my joints in good positions - like a professional dancer - my joint stability improved. So I make a cup of tea in 'Ballet mode'. And my shoulder and wrist remain attached!

As my core stability improved through years of physio and exercises, I thought maybe I could use dance as a form of excercise - practicing controling my joints but in a way that is so much more fun than gym work. I called around several local dance classes. The responses were either that they 'didn't do that kind of thing' (i.e. wheelchairs) or that 'Yes, we are inclusive - you can sit out when we do the foot work'. Neither response gave me any hope that I would be encouraged to find the things that I am good at, and to dance in a way that makes the most of the abilities I have.

I had almost given up when I discovered 'Dugout, Oxford'. I wouldn't even class them as 'inclusive' - because they don't 'include'. You join. You are a dancer. You are one of the group, and valued as such. 

I first went to Dugout just over 2 years ago, but after a few sessions had to drop out due to my POTS. However, I am much better at managing it now so I rejoined in February. And I love it.

This was the first time I've been involved in a dance performance and it was brilliant fun. (my solo is at approx 10:10)

(You can hardly tell I'm wearing a cooling vest underneath that top!)

I had to explain beforehand 'I will collapse after we finish, I will lie on the floor until I regain enough consciousness to function. This is totally normal, and I'll be fine in a bit.'

But it was worth it.