Meet Jennifer Gurjao - a real-life superhero at Milton Keynes leisure centre

We often take the little things in life for granted. Being able to drive to the gym, get dressed independently, walk into a class or simply get on with our day.

And then you meet someone like Jennifer.

Jennifer was first diagnosed with breast cancer in 2004. In 2016, she received another devastating diagnosis: secondary breast cancer and Myeloma, a type of blood cancer that affects the bone marrow, blood and bones.

Three years ago, Jennifer underwent a stem cell transplant. Sadly, the Myeloma has now returned in her bones. She is currently having weekly chemotherapy, while continuing medication in tablet form for her breast cancer.

But Jennifer's story isn't about giving up.

At 65, a proud grandma to five grandchildren, she has been part of the Woughton Leisure Centre family for an incredible 22 years.

Recently, she suffered another setback after falling and badly injuring both elbows. For a while, she couldn't dress herself or drive. Her husband helped her get dressed every day, but after a few weeks, Jennifer was determined to regain her independence.

And she did.

Her determination has even left hospital staff in awe.

She can no longer drive, so getting to WLC means taking two buses. But does that stop her? Absolutely not.

She still comes to Aqua Fit. Although her chemotherapy means she currently cannot get into the pool, she sits on a chair and does whatever she can.

"Nothing can stop me. You just have to carry on."

And one of my favourite things she said:

"Once I'm in the gym, the pain goes away."

For Jennifer, it's about so much more than exercise.

"The energy makes me feel part of the team. Community is everything, and this place has the best community. WLC is the place to be."

Jennifer reminds us that strength comes in many forms. Sometimes it's lifting weights. Sometimes it's learning to do the simplest things independently again. And sometimes it's getting on two buses just to be somewhere that makes you feel good.

We talk about motivation, determination and resilience, but sometimes we don't have to look very far to find it.

It's people like Jennifer who make our community what it is.

Jennifer, you are an inspiration, and we are incredibly proud to have you as part of our WLC family.

22 years of community. A lifetime of determination. And still moving boundaries.

This is Woughton Leisure Centre. This is what community looks like.