Mandy Neal speaks at weekend retreat run by TRTRehab of York

Mandy Neal won last year’s York Press Community Pride Award in the ‘Against All Odds’ category for her positivity and inspiration, which inspired award judges and Press readers.

As the Press reported, Mandy suddenly fell ill in January 2024, and was rushed to York Hospital where she was put in an induced coma in intensive care and placed on a ventilator. Doctors diagnosed pneumonia but also an infection – Strep A.

Mandy remained in hospital for a long time during which her body fought hard to keep her organs going, meaning blood supplies to her extremities were restricted. She survived but both her hands and feet had to be amputated.

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The much-loved mother and grandmother from York had always previously enjoyed good health and an active lifestyle – swimming, cycling and playing with her grandchildren.

Since her surgery, Many, who has worked as a waitress at Betty’s for 30 years, has inspired others by carrying on as best she can, including learning to independently walk again, using prosthetics legs.

Mandy Neal and guests of the TRTRehab wellness retreat. (Image: Pic supplied)

Mandy’s award was sponsored by TRTRehab, a multi-awards winning Therapy Studio which specialises in helping people get out of pain and regain control of their lives.

TRTRehab founder and owner Iwona Michalska said: “We were inspired by her honesty, humour and strength, and felt she would be the perfect motivational speaker for our retreat. She absolutely delivered, encouraging attendees to keep fighting for their health and to believe that a good life does not stop with disability.”

TRTrehab runs immersive retreats twice a year at Hawkhills, near York. These retreats are designed for individuals who are willing to go the extra mile and fully immerse themselves in recovery from persistent pain, chronic illness or disability.

The last retreat was last weekend, which included tailored exercise sessions adapted to each participant’s ability, team games and personal challenges, mindset and resilience training and social activities.

Mandy Neal and TRTRehab’s Iwona Michalska (Image: NQ)

Iwona added: “Mandy is passionate about inspiring others and is always keen to connect with new groups, schools and organisations to spread her message that life does not stop with disability.

“Mandy joined us at the retreat as our motivational speaker, and she was truly outstanding. She inspired, motivated and encouraged everyone in the room to keep fighting for their health and their lives, no matter the obstacles they face. 

“Her story and positivity had a real impact on all who attended.”

TRTrehab hopes to welcome Mandy again, this time as a participant at our next retreat in November 2026.

For more information about TRTrehab and upcoming retreats, go to: www.trtrehab.co.uk