Becky’s Story

I am Becky. I’m a C5/6 tetraplegic following an accident 33 years ago when I was 17. I am an HR Manager by profession with over 25 years of experience in the corporate and charity sectors. I currently work for the national spinal injuries charity, Back Up, as the Vocation Specialist, alongside running a business centred on Inclusive Tourism, Endeavour Safaris. I’ve always been fairly active, having been very sporty in my childhood before my injury. I love sport and currently play wheelchair rugby, for Bournemouth Lions. 

“I’ve always been fairly active, having been very sporty in my childhood prior to my injury. I love sport and currently play wheelchair rugby“

Fitness Journey Beginnings:

I started to think more consciously about my fitness about 10 years ago, having moved back to Dorset after 15 years of living and working in London. Work had taken over and finding time and a sport, gym or fitness regime that I could engage in had taken a back seat. It was limited to an infrequent push-out on a hand-bike. There was a new wheelchair rugby club being set up in my local town, and whilst I hadn’t played the sport before, I knew it was one I could have a go at, with my level of spinal injury. 

“I would definitely recommend Adapt to Perform – I’ve used the online resources, and training sessions a fair amount. There’s also WheelPower and ParaSport have an online search tool, to look up local clubs.“

Fitness Activities:

I play wheelchair rugby regularly at my local club, Bournemouth Lions. I have also engaged in wheelchair-friendly exercises, using online resources and like to go for wheelchair pushes when I can. Wheelchair rugby has stuck as it’s a club and team environment which makes me attend when otherwise it can be easy to find other draws on your time. 

“I feel physically fitter; certainly stamina has improved greatly. It has also helped me manage my weight.”

Physical Changes:

I feel physically fitter; certainly stamina has improved greatly. It has also helped me manage my weight. 

Mental and Emotional Impact:

I am quite a mentally strong person anyway, but I do feel a sense of achievement after a session of training. 

“Time was my biggest hurdle. And finding a club local to me. But there are more clubs in different sports out there, than you think, and more resources online – you just need to look.”

Independence and Daily Living:

I am generally fit and well and don’t suffer from some of the complications associated with spinal injury that often, due to good health and well-being. 

Obstacles and Triumphs:

Time was my biggest hurdle. And finding a club local to me. But there are more clubs in different sports out there, than you think, and more resources online. – you just need to look. 

Support System:

My husband helps a lot plus my fellow teammates and club volunteers. They help me use the equipment I need and transfer into the wheelchair rugby chair. 

“I am quite a mentally strong person anyway, but I do feel a sense of achievement after a session at training.“

Advice for Others:

I would recommend Adapt to Perform – I’ve used the online resources, and training sessions a fair amount. There’s also WheelPower and ParaSport have an online search tool, to look up local clubs.

“Find what works for you. Start slow and build and it’ll be surprising what more you can do.”

Future Goals:

I intend to continue playing wheelchair rugby so I have that regular opportunity to train and help my fitness levels. 

Final Thoughts:

Find what works for you. Start slow and build and it’ll be surprising what more you can do.