Andrea’s Story: From Chronic Pain to 100 Miles of Gratitude

When Andrea Stirling first heard about the Walk 100 Miles in June Challenge, she was on her way to an aquafit class at the Village Gym in Edinburgh. Passing a banner at the bus stop outside the Western General Hospital, she paused and thought, “I can do that!” It felt like the perfect next step in celebrating how far she had come in her recovery journey and giving back to the NHS team who had helped her avoid major surgery.

Just months earlier, Andrea had been facing the prospect of a major back operation to manage chronic, debilitating pain. But everything changed when her physiotherapist — recommended she try hydrotherapy at the Western General Hospital. After just four sessions, her NHS physio encouraged her to continue with aquafit classes. That advice turned out to be life changing.

Reflecting on her recovery, Andrea shared:

“The buoyancy of the water gave me the ability to move without weight. It was a lightbulb moment. The pain eased, and eventually, the operation was no longer necessary — even the consultant agreed. I’m sure it saved the NHS a huge amount of money too!”

Andrea embraced aquafit as part of her routine, booking sessions regularly and walking to and from the gym in Craigleith. When she saw the Walk 100 Miles in June banner, it felt like the perfect next step and a great way to celebrate her recovery and give back to the NHS team who had supported and cared for her.

To help rack up the miles, Andrea walked wherever she could — incorporating her regular walks to the gym in her challenge, and also adding extra walks around her neighbourhood and while dog-sitting for her son and daughter-in-law.

Speaking about the challenge itself, Andrea said:

“It wasn’t an ordeal. I’ve always loved walking and hillwalking, and this challenge actually helped me feel even better. It was a double win.”

Andrea’s connection to the NHS runs deep — her father was one of the first NHS GPs in Pilton and served on the board of the Western General Hospital, and another member of her family works for an NHS Lothian hospital. Supporting NHS Lothian Charity felt like a natural choice.

Setting out with a modest fundraising target of £100, Andrea absolutely smashed it — raising an incredible £520.89. Grateful for the support she received, she added:

“I don’t like asking people for money, but I was amazed by the support. I would shout from the rooftops now about the benefits of aquafit and the care I received. If I can do this, anyone can.”

Andrea’s story is a great reminder that small steps can lead to life-changing results. Her journey shows that taking on a challenge like Walk 100 Miles in June isn’t just about fitness; it’s about celebrating progress, giving back to our cherished NHS, and proving to yourself what’s possible.