On 21st April 2026, while trying to help a mother stop her teenage daughter from running into oncoming traffic. I was kicked in the face causing me to fall backwards , resulting in serious injury to my left knee.

I honestly thought it would be an injury that would eventually settle.

Unfortunately, it hasn’t.

After months of pain, restricted movement and trying to manage things through the NHS, I’ve now been told that I have severe bone-on-bone arthritis in the outer part of my knee, with a significant loss of movement.

For most people, an injury like this would be difficult enough.

For me, it has affected almost every part of my life.

I’m a personal trainer, fitness instructor and kettlebell athlete. Training isn’t just something I enjoy — it’s my job, my passion and a huge part of who I am.

I’m still working and continuing to train and support my clients, but my own physical training has been dramatically restricted. I can’t currently train, lift and compete in the way I used to, and some aspects of my work have become more physically challenging because of my limited movement.

I’ve spent the last few months trying to manage things, continuing to work and hoping that things would improve. I’m now being referred to an orthopaedic specialist to look at what treatment options might be available.

However, I’m facing the possibility of a very long wait, and private assessment and treatment could potentially help me move forward with my recovery sooner.

So, after a lot of hesitation, I’ve decided to ask for some help.

I’m setting up this fundraiser to help towards the cost of private consultations, investigations, treatment and rehabilitation for my knee.

I know times are difficult for everyone, and there is absolutely no pressure or expectation for anyone to donate.

If you’re able to contribute, no matter how small, I would be incredibly grateful. ❤️

And if you can’t donate, sharing this fundraiser would mean just as much to me.

I’ve spent a lot of my life helping other people, and asking for help myself doesn’t come naturally to me at all.

But right now, I need a little help getting back on my feet.

I want to get back to training properly.

I want to get back to lifting.

I want to get back to competing.

I want to be able to move freely and demonstrate what I ask of my clients.

And I want to get back to doing the things I love.

I know I may not be able to go straight back to doing everything I did before, but I want the best possible chance of getting stronger, moving better and rebuilding my life around what my knee will allow.

If you’ve ever trained with me, come to one of my classes, followed my fitness journey, supported RFitness Training, or simply know me and want to help — thank you.

Thank you for taking the time to read my story, for supporting me, for sharing this fundraiser and for anything you can do to help.

It genuinely means more than I can put into words. ❤️

Ruth