KEEN sportsman Andy Haynes has his life he so nearly gave up on back on track after a devastating diagnosis.

Now he's ready to help others follow.

Andy, 56, from Kington, had to leave a 36 year career in mental health and quit sport having been diagnosed with multiple sclerosis.

Two years on he says his life has "radically changed" a free course offered by Wye Valley NHS Trust.

Andy read about about the trust's expert patient programme in the Hereford Times 12 months ago.

He says the story put his life back on track as it lead him into the programme that turns patients with long-term and debilitating conditions into "tutors" for others facing similar challenges.

Anyone in the county with a long-term health condition, such as diabetes, arthritis, asthma or depression, can take part in the programme's self-management courses.

The latest round of courses start in Ledbury on June 4 and Leominster on June 17.

And Andy may well be one of the tutors

“I was becoming depressed and nearly giving up on life. I really could not see a way forward because of the physical and emotional impact I was experiencing.

"Taking part in this course made me realise there were things I could do to make life easier, gain back control and plan for my future," said Andy.

“We are a small friendly group and all have long term conditions, many with similar symptoms, sharing our experiences, as well as looking at diet, way of life, exercise, rest, relaxation, and setting achievable rewarding goals.

“I would urge anyone thinking about taking part to please come along, because it’s just a few hours once a week for six weeks. It could make such a difference to your quality of life and it complements the care or support you may already be receiving from healthcare professionals," he said.

Programme co-ordinator Sue Tobey said: “People like Andy have so much to give back to others who are struggling with managing a long-term health condition, because they have first-hand experience.

“Our courses are tutored by trained volunteers with long-term health conditions, so they have first-hand experience of learning new ways and techniques to manage their health more effectively.

For more on the programme call Sue Tobey on 01432 364463 or visit www.wyevalley.nhs.uk (community services).