Last week we drove 7 hours for Mal to attend a golf clinic held by Empower Golf. The joys of living in Regional areas means we have to travel to access these sorts of things but we made a holiday of it and had our first holiday in 2 years (first one since the stroke). It was well worth the drive and it has put him one step closer to his goal of getting him back on the golf course. Golf Clinic
Love this Michelle. Mal looks so damn happy.
Paul Fink also goes to Empower Golf. Here is his blog if you want to introduce yourselves or find out more about him.
Can you share what you and Mal though were the best bits of the day?
For those that want to know more about EmpowerGolf.
Thanks Diana, I will definitely do that.
The golf pro, Ian, provided some great tips on hand placement which allowed Mal to hit further and straighter with one hand. He also got to try the Paragolfer but because his balance is pretty good he preferred to stand on his own. It also has given me the confidence as his carer to go to our local driving range now we are back home as I have seen how capable he is.
Thanks Michelle,
I imagine that it gave Mal a real shot in the arm, and built his confidence.
Also for you. Is Mal your husband? If yes, it must feel good doing activities, like golf, as a couple.
Diana
Hi Michelle I’m delighted for Mal that he’s getting back to golf. My Stroke was in March 2018 and being such an avid golfer I was concerned about returning to the course. With time, patience and terrific support from my golf friends, I started to walk 12holes after a year, still struggling to do 18 but who cares, golf is just so good for coordination, fresh air, good company. The crazy thing is I’m a better putter now than I was before the Stroke! Well done again Mal and Merry Christmas 🎄 suzi
Thank you for your reply Suzi. It is wonderful to hear of other Stroke Survivors returning to golf. I'm trying to talk his mates into taking him, even if it is just to go out in the golf buggy, but they are a bit nervous with his mobility issues.
Hi Michelle,
I am pleased that Mal has got back on the golf course. To answer your question on why you had to travel so far. Firstly you have to find a regional course that is interested in taking this on. Then the course has to be interested and also become an accredited disabled golf instructor. Once this has been done the course has to have the correct disabled facilities. You then need the support of your state golf association. The golf club also needs to be near a major road etc to make for easy access and finally when all that is done you need to find a day when the club can let it happen and also have volunteers to help with the organisation.
In the current climate using golf club facilities would be very limited.ie cart hire and then physical distancing. I also think that any government funding would be in short supply. I really hope that one day sport and recreation will be an all inclusive past time and not just something for the haves. I was a golf player but fatigue makes it that I can only play a few holes at a time now
Cheers Nick