At Fife Sports and Leisure Trust, we see every day how physical activity can transform lives. For Maggie Thomson, Michael Woods Sports and Leisure Centre became a place that supported her health, built her confidence, and helped her form meaningful connections.

Following her passing in January 2026, Maggie is remembered not only for her own journey, but for the lasting impact she had on those around her.

Maggie’s journey began with a routine health check at her local clinic. She had been diagnosed with high blood pressure and was advised she was pre-diabetic. Acting on the advice of her nurse, Maggie took an important first step and joined a 12-week health and wellbeing programme through Fife Sports and Leisure Trust.

At first, she wasn’t sure. Gyms had always felt overwhelming to her, but that changed the moment she walked through the doors at Michael Woods. With support from the Health and Wellbeing team, and guidance from instructors like Lawrence, Maggie began to build both her confidence and her fitness. Over the course of the programme, she lost a stone and a half, but more importantly, she gained energy, improved her overall health, and discovered a new sense of enjoyment in being active.

After completing the programme, Maggie didn’t stop. She kept going.

She took to the swimming pool and found a love for Aqua Aerobics, led by instructor Debbie Young, whose classes she described as full of “music, atmosphere, and endorphins.” These sessions became a highlight of her week, not just for the physical benefits, but for the joy and connection they brought.

Maggie often spoke about how attending classes made her feel ready to “take on the world.”

But Maggie’s story wasn’t only about her own health, it was about the impact she had on others.

A retired school secretary and a respected member of the Rimbleton Primary School community, Maggie brought her warmth and compassion into everything she did. At Michael Woods, she quickly became a familiar and welcoming face. She built strong friendships with fellow class members, including Karen, Kay, Dee, Maureen and Margaret, and helped create a supportive, inclusive community within the Aqua Aerobics classes.

Her friends say that Maggie had a natural ability to make people feel at ease. Whether chatting before class, encouraging others during sessions, or welcoming new faces, including participants from Disability Sport Fife, Maggie made sure everyone felt they belonged.

Outside of the centre, Maggie’s commitment to her community continued. She volunteered regularly, from supporting activities at West Braes in Pittenweem to teaching crochet to pupils at Markinch Primary School. She also loved walking, often covering up to 10 miles a day.

Her energy, kindness, and generosity left a lasting impression on everyone who knew her.

As Debbie Young reflected: “Maggie met a lot of new friends coming to the class, and she even brought along friends to join too. She absolutely loved the atmosphere of music, movement and smiles… There are some attendees that make a lasting impact, and that was Maggie. She will never be forgotten.”

Her loss has been deeply felt by staff, friends, and the wider community at Michael Woods.

Her story, however, leaves us with an important message.

Maggie’s journey began with a simple health check. A moment that prompted her to take action. Her experience is a reminder of how important it is to listen to our bodies, seek advice when something doesn’t feel right, and take proactive steps towards better health.

Regular physical activity can play a vital role in managing and preventing long-term health conditions such as high blood pressure and diabetes. Just as importantly, it can improve mental wellbeing, build confidence, and create meaningful social connections.

You don’t have to be confident or experienced to start, as Maggie herself showed, what matters most is taking that first step.

If you have concerns about your health, we encourage you to speak to a healthcare professional and consider exploring supportive programmes like Active Options at Fife Sports and Leisure Trust. These classes are designed specifically for individuals living with long-term health conditions, with options for both self-referral and referral through a health professional. You can find out more here: https://www.fifeleisure.org.uk/health-wellbeing/

For additional trusted guidance on physical activity and managing your health, NHS Fife provides a range of helpful resources: https://www.nhsfife.org/pain-talking/useful-information-and-resources/

Maggie’s journey is one of courage, kindness, and transformation. She will be remembered not only for her dedication to her own health, but for the way she lifted others along the way.

Her legacy lives on in the community she helped build, and in every person, she inspired to take that first step.