Haemodialysis cyclist goes miles for 'fun'
Les Boulton (89), from Nairn, received a special award from staff for the commitment he has shown to the haemodialysis cycling programme.
This is a chance for patients to be active as they are given a stationary pedal exercise machine which allows them to cycle while receiving dialysis.
Last year, Mr Boulton cycled the equivalent of 1415 miles across 143 haemodialysis sessions.
Linda McDougall, renal physiotherapist for NHS Highland, explained that the programme has been running for 10 years and everyone is very impressed with Mr Boulton and what he has done.
“Like many long-term conditions, the effects of chronic kidney disease can have a significant impact on cardiovascular fitness, muscle strength and bone density which, over time, can effect an individual’s physical function, levels of independence and ultimately quality of life,” she said.
“For these reasons regular exercise is as essential for these individuals as it is for the general population.
“For patients on haemodialysis however it can be hard to fit regular exercise sessions around their haemodialysis sessions which are hugely time consuming and tiring. Providing the opportunity to exercise while on haemodialysis allows patients to exercise in a regular and safe manner and take an active role in maintaining their fitness levels.
“Across our haemodialysis units in Raigmore and Belford we have 20 patients registered on the programme. Over the course of 2017 they cycled over 10,500 miles which is from here to Sydney, Australia as the crow flies.”
She added: “Les is an inspiration to the other patients and also to us as staff. In 2017, he cycled 1415 miles across 143 haemodialysis sessions which is just shy of cycling from John O’Groats to Land’s End and back again.
“He really does deserve this recognition.”
NHS Highland believes there is a clear body of evidence showing a number of significant benefits for renal patients to undertake regular exercise.
Mr Boulton has been on dialysis for nine years and has fully embraced exercise while on haemodialysis becoming the unit’s longest serving cyclist.
“I do it for the fun of it,” he said. “Ironically in spite of having a hip problem when I’m lying down to cycle it’s very comfortable. I’m most grateful for this recognition.”
