Lovely calm waters for a stand up paddle boarding session in Castlebar yesterday on Lough Lannagh Lake. Thanks to Jarlath McHale @mayoadventureexperience for making the lake inclusive to all! This is the first of few attempts to try to create something to enable people living with disabilities to get active and enjoy the great outdoors in the Mayo region.
Sport and physical activity are central to the fabric of life in Ireland. Everyone, no matter what their background or circumstances, should have the opportunity to engage in sport and physical activity at a level of their choosing. There’s no doubt sports and remaining as active as possible since my accident has helped me enormously in all aspects of recovery. Sport is a great outlet for overwhelming and debilitating emotions offering a platform of fun and social activity.
Getting outside into the fresh air with family, friends, colleagues and even strangers can be great fun and a wonderful opportunity to meet people. Another bonus is fresh air is free and positive for Mental Health.
Individuals with disabilities face challenges around inclusivity in sporting activities and events. Small changes can have a big impact in the lives of people around you.
As part of my European Cultural Foundation grant it is my aim to connects and source activities in the region for people of all abilities. Awareness and understanding is key so lets keep knocking down walls and overcoming those challenges together. My project will hopefully communicate the benefits of physical activities to all leading to a more inclusive Europe. I feel honoured to be a part of a programme that highlights culture as a force for positive change.
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