At Kingly House, our specialist neurological rehabilitation service in Leicestershire, we believe that each resident should have a life well lived. And for Martin, one of our residents, that means doing the things he’s always loved: grabbing a coffee and taking in a theatre show.

Martin moved to Kingly House in September 2023. Living with Huntington’s disease, a progressive neurological condition, comes with a unique set of daily challenges – from changes in mobility and coordination to speech and memory difficulties. But despite this, Martin continues to live a life shaped by his own choices and values.

A Life Still Full of Meaning

Martin is determined to hold on to the things that matter most to him. He starts most days with a trip to Costa – a little treat that anchors his routine and gives him a sense of independence.

His support plan isn’t about changing who he is. It’s about making space for the things he values, in a way that’s safe and sustainable.

From the Streets to the Stage

Before arriving at Kingly House, Martin’s situation was complex. But within weeks of settling at Kingly House, he started to connect – not just with staff, but with life. He was reconnected with his brother and son, who now visit regularly, and he was supported into a more stable, positive routine.

One of the most memorable moments came during a trip to the theatre in Cromer last September. Martin, who rarely speaks much now, turned to a member of staff halfway through the show and said, “His stage presence is incredible. It’s very hard to do that.” In just a few words, he shared his appreciation and his past.

As it turns out, Martin once had a background in events and theatre himself. He produced shows, worked as a steward at major football games and festivals, and even created his own film. His love for the stage never left him – and now, even as his speech and movement become more limited, that spark is still there.

Holidays, Memories, and Moments

In the last few months alone, Martin’s taken part in trips to Blackpool, Cromer, and Skegness, as well as a boat trip. These aren’t just outings; they’re memories in the making. For someone living with a degenerative condition, keeping the ability to take part in everyday experiences is an achievement.

As Ida Chatburn, Registered Manager at Kingly House, says, “The aim with Martin is not to reverse the effects of Huntington’s. We can’t. The goal is to preserve and celebrate what remains. To help Martin keep doing the things he loves for as long as he can.”

Every trip to Costa and every visit to the theatre – they’re proof that a diagnosis doesn’t have to define what life looks like.

And for Martin, that life is still full of routine. He’s living in the ways that matter most to him.