Issue link: http://read.dmtmag.com/i/68546
is hitting the ball are the variables," explained Ginny. "The common denominators are fun, challenge, reward, camaraderie, fresh air and exercise. Everyone can play golf!" As Ginny's helper at the clinic, I was able to meet most of the students who came out to McCleery to get some tips on how to improve their game or just hit a golf ball for the first time. Many people were in wheelchairs; others could stand and walk, but had limited arm and shoulder mobility. But that didn't stop any of them from whacking the ball as far as they possibly could, enjoying that sweet sound a good strike makes. The students left with valuable golf knowledge and fond memories of 'come back tomorrow' shots and I left with a new appreciation of life and a desire to know more about these remarkable individuals. Take Ed, for example. Ed survived a stroke 5 years ago and has very limited use of his left arm. So his is a one-handed swing using his right arm only; but when he connects with the ball, it soars! A client of GF Strong, Ed has enjoyed participating in a number of therapies, but his favourites by far are the recreational programs such as sailing, kayaking and golf. Prior to his stroke, Ed, like most of us, enjoyed golf but was frustrated with the level of his game." Sound familiar? Today, Ed is working on improving his fundamentals and, "To regain [his] love of the sport." "It's very challenging - probably the most challenging sport out there," Ed explained. said Ed. "When you've suffered any kind of disability, you've lost all of your confidence. So when somebody gives me advice on technique and helps me regain my confidence, it's great." Janet Soucy, a recreation therapist at the GF Strong Rehab Centre in Vancouver explains how the program works, "When I meet with a client, I do an assessment to find out about their leisure history, activities, needs and goals," said Janet. "If there was an activity or sport that they enjoyed before their trauma or accident, like golf, we take a look at the big picture. What are their specific barriers to participation in golf, and how can we overcome them? For some individuals it could be the physical disabilities that impair them. But in most cases it's also the lack of finances and transportation." "And it makes it doubly challenging when you can only use one arm. I haven't really developed the right technique to be able to use one hand, but I'm working on it." Lessons from pros like Ginny help and they aren't just about grip, alignment and swing planes. "A lot of it is about building confidence too," Janet went on to explain that a lot of her clients, especially those with brain injuries, find themselves unable to work or drive. The circle of friends that they had at one time may no longer be available to them. They become isolated. But golf clinics like this one, along with other structured activities such as tai chi, modified hiking/walking programs and kayaking, canoeing, outrigger and dragon boating offered by the Vancouver Park Board, help clients feel better about themselves. They also provide the opportunity to meet new people and friends who can provide encouragement and support. According to Continued On Next Page 20 IMAGES CREDIT GAYLE MOSS (WWW.GOLFGAL.CA)