THELMA Bryan keeps herself so busy it is a wonder she finds time to take a breath – but that does not stop the indefatigable 86-year-old from providing a breath of fresh air to others.
Thelma celebrates her 26th year of volunteering at Cairns Hospital this month. A qualified yoga teacher, she offers classes to patients in the hospital’s mental health unit.
Thelma started giving lessons at the hospital after a friend, who was already teaching there, suggested she give it a try following her retirement.
“I try to help them to relax and use their bodies correctly,” Thelma said. “So many (patients) have poor posture or move badly, so I look for ways I can help them improve.”
Thelma has had her own share of difficulties: she is a carer to her husband and has had three hip replacements. She relies on an electric tricycle to get around the hospital and can’t perform some exercises such as crossing the legs, but feels it is important to maintain her philanthropic work.
“I think I do have a gift of encouraging patients to believe in themselves and sometimes I almost feel as if my age is a benefit in some ways. “I think sometimes they think if she’s 86 and she can do it, I can.”
Thelma is also a talented swimmer who likes to swim for charity and to compete when her caring duties allow her to.
She competed in the Masters Games last year, finishing first in the world in her age group in the 400-metre individual medley and second in the 100-metre and 200-metre butterfly events.
