Hi all again,
its been a long time since I have posted, been a little bit busy and getting my head around the diagnosis, also find out new and wonderful ways my body can play tricks on me (my how I laugh), anyway my boss ( and friend) saw me looking miserable at work, and as previously to this illness I had a lifetimes martial arts experience behind me, invited me to meet a friend of his ( also my boss is a black belt in Karate).
His friend, Ray who runs a NGO called the Disability Karate Federation, a little while later I was invited to help out at their annual event at Stoke Mandeville Hospital. Thinking my that my days being involved in martial arts were over I gladly accepted this invitation and turned up not knowing quite what to expect.
I can sum the day up in one word, joyous,( I was having a bad couple of days, I had to use my walking stick, I was given the task of being a desk judge I helped collate the the scores of the competitors. )
The demographic of the students and instructors taking part was awe inspiring, not only from different nations taking part but to the disabilities catered for. For some people myself included just being there was a massive victory.
The care and love shown to everyone was amazing, until this illness I have not been prone to emotion but I was holding back the tears watching the effort and dedication shown by students and instructors alike.
The DKF and ability martial arts cater for the individual, no one regardless of disability or ability is made to feel anything less than fully included.
The day started for the competitors with a parade followed by introductions of dignitaries, there were two competition areas with students firstly demonstrating in the one area (mat) followed by their second demonstration on the 2nd mat.
After each category was completed a medal ceremony and presentation was then held. A nurse was on hand to assist with any medical issues. Water, tea, coffee and snacks were also provided.
So ok we with MS may have good and bad days but if martial arts is something you never thought that you would be able to do, well think again, it can be achieved. The DKF accept and help anyone who wishes to take part.
My favourite part of the day was how the competitors were treated like the real athletes that they are and not being patronised just because that they are differently abled.
If anyone is interested in this organisation they are on facebook or there website is disabilitykarate.co.uk
I hope that the above post is of interest.