Music teacher Christine Axford has volunteered to do the ‘donkey work’ – and she couldn’t be happier.
For the past 5 years Christine, from Sandown, has suffered from ever-worsening varicose veins, which has meant the hours spent on her feet as she gives lessons in woodwind instruments became increasingly painful.
Now she is not only hitting the right note in class but she has also volunteered to be a helper at the Isle of Wight Donkey Sanctuary, following an operation at Spire Portsmouth Hospital carried out by Consultant Vascular Surgeon Mr Simon Payne.
Christine said:
“It might sound strange to some people but I love donkeys and have always fancied helping at the sanctuary. Once I became semi-retired as a teacher I thought the time was right but I couldn’t do it because my varicose veins were just too painful.
“As soon as I was back on my feet after the operation I volunteered and now I’m helping out and having great fun.
“I can also to do my job without the pain and discomfort and I can stand through a full rehearsal with my band, the Foundation Wind Band at the Isle of Wight Music Centre, without having to hop from one foot to the other in order to try and relieve the aching in my legs.”
Surgeon Mr Payne explained:
“Varicose veins are a common problem which tends to run in families. They can be exacerbated by things like standing up for long periods of time, pregnancy or weight gain, so try to keep your weight down, take regular walks and wear compression stockings while pregnant.
“It can cause aching, heavy, throbbing or itchy legs as well as being unsightly. On rare occasions it can create more serious complications, such as skin staining and even ulceration can occur.
“Fortunately modern vascular surgery is able to help. Mrs Axford received laser surgery which meant there was no need for a general anaesthetic and she was able to return home on the same day.”
As for grandmother-of-3 Christine, she is delighted be out in the fields and making lots of new friends.
“Donkeys really are the loveliest animals and it is a real pleasure to be working with them. I couldn’t have done this before the operation so I’m so grateful to Mr Payne for making it possible.”
For more information about the donkey sanctuary visit www.iowdonkeysanctuary.org.
