A man who was left unable to walk after life-saving surgery is preparing to return to independent living.
Graham Ross, 71, from Scotstoun, lost his mobility following brain tumour surgery but is now working towards moving back into his own home thanks to intensive rehabilitation and support from Oakbridge Care Home.
A former tennis player and golfer, Graham studied chemistry and biochemistry at Aberdeen University and later tutored students while maintaining an active, sport-filled lifestyle.
He said: "I was never the world’s greatest tennis player, but I played regularly, often twice a week, and really enjoyed the social side of it."
However, in 2017, Graham's life took a major turn after he was diagnosed with a brain tumour.
He said: "At first, I was hesitant about having surgery because of the risks, but the tumour was growing, and after three years I decided to go ahead with the operation."
While the operation successfully removed the tumour, it left him with lasting physical challenges, including limited use of his left arm and leg.
After several months in hospital, Graham moved into a care home for specialist support that his family could not provide.
Over more than two years, he underwent intensive rehabilitation, including physiotherapy, to regain his mobility.
He first learned to walk again using a quad stick and can now walk more confidently with a standing aid.
Graham said: "The care team at Oakbridge have been very supportive.
"They’ve always made sure I was getting the help I needed and gave a really good level of care.
"I think they provide a very valuable service in looking after vulnerable people.
"The carers do a great job.
"It’s not just about end-of-life care, it’s about helping people recover and regain their independence."
During his time at Oakbridge Care Home, staff helped Graham stay active with visits to the golf range to build his strength and confidence.
Now, thanks to their support, he is preparing to return to independent living and hopes to resume some of his old hobbies.
Graham said: "I’d like to see if I can get back to playing table tennis.
"That would mean a lot.
"I still have limited mobility in my left arm so realistically tennis and golf will be off the cards for me, but I used to play a lot of table tennis and I’ll be aiming to find somewhere local to me that I can get back into playing and meet some people along the way."
Oakbridge is one of five care homes operated by Oakminster Healthcare across Glasgow, including Florence House in Govan, Cumbrae House at St George's Cross, Chester Park in Kinning Park, and Oakview Manor in Pollokshields.
Sunita Poddar, founder and chief executive of Oakminster Healthcare, said: "At Oakminster, we are incredibly proud to deliver high-quality, person-centred care that not only supports residents day-to-day, but empowers them to achieve their goals and regain their independence.
"We work closely with NHS partners and community services to create tailored rehabilitation pathways, ensuring residents like Graham are supported every step of the way on their journey back to living independently within their communities.
"Graham’s progress is truly inspiring and a powerful example of what can be achieved through collaborative care, dedication, and the right support."
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