I’m John and I have been a wheelchair user for over 40 years now due to a spinal injury in 1984.
Throughout my rehabilitation at Lodge Moor Spinal Injuries Unit, I was introduced to wheelchair sport and took up wheelchair basketball through the winter and threw the javelin through the summer. I was lucky enough to be selected for Team GB in the javelin and went to competitions in Australia, America, Singapore, Hong Kong and many countries throughout Europe. I was also part of the Sheffield Steelers Wheelchair Basketball team and we competed throughout Britain and a few times in Europe as well.
As I got older – I’m now 59 – I gave up wheelchair sport and began volunteering for wheelchair charities such as the Spinal Injuries Association, Back Up, Aspire and also as a hospital volunteer on the Sheffield spinal injuries unit.
I decided to volunteer at Horatio’s Garden Sheffield & East as I am a regular visitor to the unit and I was blown away at the opening in May.
I just love being in and around the peaceful setting and talking to newly injured people, as well as their families and friends, offering them support and advice as they come to terms with this life-changing event.
I’m visiting the garden two to three times a week, but away from the garden, I fill my time playing snooker and pool. I also play the drums in a cover band which is called Bad Circulation – and yes, we’re always open for bookings!
I hope to see you in Horatio’s Garden in Sheffield soon.
Feeling inspired to become a volunteer?
To find out more about joining one of our friendly teams please click here, or email volunteer@horatiosgarden.org.uk to register your interest.
We’ll look forward to hearing from you!
