Equestrian
Essential Resources for Disabled Parents: What You Need to Know
I joined a Paralympic and Olympic Mums Whatsapp group when I was pregnant, and it proved to be invaluable. Sharing experiences and checking in with each other helped ease the journey into motherhood. At the same time, I was fortunate to be in touch with Charlotte Dujardin, the Olympic dressage gold medallist, who was expecting as well. We exchanged messages throughout our pregnancies, finding comfort in mutual understanding.
However, this journey was not without its challenges. I quickly discovered a significant gap in resources for disabled prospective parents. Questions loomed large: How would I carry my baby? Which buggy would be suitable? Could I push him while using my scooter or wheelchair? Hours of scrolling through social media yielded little guidance. While there is a plethora of information for parents of disabled children, resources tailored for disabled parents are scarce, making the experience quite daunting. Now, if I can share my insights and lessons learned, I hope to pave a smoother path for others.
Innovative Solutions and Techniques
I have also come across some remarkable gadgets that have made parenting on wheels much more manageable. For example, I used a baby carrier to transport my son, Joshua, when navigating with my scooter or wheelchair. As Joshua has grown stronger and more capable of sitting up, I now utilize a device known as the LapBaby, which securely fastens around both his waist and mine. This piece of equipment has been a game changer, particularly in a wheelchair, allowing us to enjoy our outings together in comfort.
Back in the Saddle
My return to riding after giving birth was nothing short of exhilarating. Just eleven weeks postpartum, I was back on my beloved horse, Lottie. Initially, I took a gentle approach, walking for the first two to three weeks. Gradually, I progressed to trotting and cantering. The experience was akin to reuniting with an old friend; everything felt just as it had before my pregnancy. Knowing my body so well, I braced myself for some aches. Yet, after years of dedication to my sport, it was astonishing how instinctively my body remembered the rhythm of riding.
Concern lingered in the back of my mind about the dual responsibilities of motherhood and competing, but surprisingly, those worries never surfaced. Such was my trust and bond with Lottie, my horse, a partner who embodies reliability and excellence. This feeling of confidence echoed through me, reminiscent of the poise demonstrated by athletes like Ellie Simmonds and Adam Hills during their Paralympic competitions.
A Community of Inspiration
Embracing motherhood within the sphere of Paralympic sports brings an invigorating sense of community and resilience. In the UK, we have a rich history of showcasing extraordinary athletes who inspire across generations. From the heart-stirring performances at the London 2012 Paralympic Games, where 4,200 athletes competed, to the trailblazing achievements of the current GB Paralympic Team, the stories of perseverance resonate through every corridor of adaptive sports. Figures reveal that in 2020, 650 athletes represented the UK at the Tokyo Games, exemplifying the power of ambition in the face of adversity.
Engaging in these sports not only builds a bridge between my personal journey as a disabled mother and an athlete but also serves as a constant reminder of the unbreakable spirit within our community. Imagine the courage it takes for athletes like Jonnie Peacock, who has set world records and captivated audiences with dynamic performances. His determination fuels inspiration, awakening in us all the notion that challenges can spur remarkable growth.
As I navigate the thrills of motherhood, I find peace in the knowledge that there are others like me. Those who juggle the demands of being fierce competitors while embracing the beauty of nurturing young lives.
The Emotional Undertone
Balancing motherhood and athletics is a journey layered with emotions, much like the exhilarating moments captured in the heart of a thrilling race or a heartfelt victory lap. Encounters with fellow athletes and mothers provide a wellspring of wisdom, driving home the message that our passions do not diminish but are, in fact, enriched by our experiences.
Being part of this tight-knit community, characterised by triumphs and challenges, lights up the path ahead. There’s a certain strength that blossoms through shared experiences, one that feels akin to being part of a relay team: each handoff signals resilience, empowering all. This realization makes me optimistic about the future, both for my journey and for others who may find themselves seeking the same community.
In the world of Paralympic sports, as we witness the driving spirit of those who push boundaries, it becomes abundantly clear: whether on the field, or in the world of parenting, we all strive for growth, connection, and a profound sense of belonging.