A mother who was told she would never walk again due to a brain injury has regained her independence thanks to her son's physiotherapy clinic. Karen Kerr, 58, suffered brain damage caused by a genetic condition called haemochromatosis, which led to a buildup of iron in her system.
In January 2023, Ms Kerr called her son Iain Legge, 30, saying she could not use her hands or stand up, and her speech was slurred. He feared a stroke, but doctors later diagnosed haemochromatosis, a disorder that prevents the body from processing iron properly. The condition can cause stroke-like symptoms and damage organs if left untreated.
Ms Kerr spent four months in hospital, losing weight to just over six stone, and required constant care. She could not leave her room and was told a 24-hour care facility was the only option. However, Mr Legge, who runs Cortex Physiotherapy in East Ayrshire with his partner Dionne Harvey, 33, decided to bring his mother to Scotland for treatment.
Beginning in May 2024, the couple used neuroplasticity training to help Ms Kerr's brain rewire itself through repeated small tasks. They also managed her iron overload through diet and lifestyle changes. Despite doubts from other medical professionals, Ms Kerr has made a remarkable recovery.
Ms Kerr said she wanted to walk to a supermarket, and eventually went Christmas shopping last year. She added: 'Just keep going, don't give up. It's all self-determination.' Her son noted that she can now walk independently, though some tasks remain challenging.
