A Journey of Recovery and Resilience
In a remarkable tale of recovery, Caroline Griffin, a 51-year-old stroke survivor, shares her transformative experience with lawn bowls. After suffering a stroke at just 47, Caroline faced not only physical challenges but also emotional hurdles that threatened to overwhelm her.
From Crisis to Community
Caroline’s life took a drastic turn in 2020 when she collapsed at her home in Redbourn, Hertfordshire. The aftermath of the stroke left her grappling with weakness on her left side, functional tremors in her hands, and debilitating neuropathic pain in her legs. As the pandemic unfolded, she felt increasingly isolated, losing her job and many of her friends, which plunged her into a deep depression.
Finding Support Through Headway
It wasn’t until Caroline connected with Headway, a charity focused on brain injury support, that she began to see a glimmer of hope. ‘Meeting them in 2021 was a turning point,’ she reflects. ‘They motivated me to step outside and engage with life again.’ This led her to the Redbourn Bowls Club, where she discovered not just a sport but a community.
Bowling Back to Confidence
Since joining the bowls club in August 2022, Caroline has experienced significant improvements in her balance and social interactions. ‘Being part of a team has been empowering,’ she shares, emphasizing the importance of camaraderie and support in her recovery journey.
Inspiration from Fellow Players
An event at the Watford bowls club introduced Caroline to the Disability Bowls England team, where she gained invaluable insights into mobility aids that enhance gameplay. ‘Seeing others with disabilities thriving in the sport inspired me,’ she notes. ‘It reinforces the idea that bowls can be a vital outlet for mental and physical health.’
Promoting Inclusivity in Bowls
The Redbourn Bowls Club is making strides towards inclusivity by hosting a free taster day on June 2, in collaboration with Headway Herts. Simon Johnson, secretary of the Watford and District Bowling Association, emphasizes the need for greater participation among those with disabilities. ‘With only 250 registered disabled bowlers out of nearly 3,000 clubs in England, it’s crucial we bridge this gap,’ he asserts.
A Call to Action
Johnson’s vision is to encourage more individuals with disabilities to engage in lawn bowls, potentially paving the way for competition at the grassroots level. He highlights the stark contrast between registered disabled players and their able-bodied counterparts, stating, ‘We must take action to ensure that no one is left behind in experiencing the joys of this sport.’
The Road Ahead
Caroline’s journey reflects the profound impact that sports can have on recovery and mental well-being. As she continues to flourish in her bowling endeavors, her story serves as a beacon of hope for others facing similar challenges. The future looks promising, not just for Caroline, but for many who might find solace and community in lawn bowls.
