Lizzie's Thoughts on Sports

I have been amazed while putting this edition together, at how many sporting opportunities there are for children and young people with special needs across the county. I am sure there's something for everybody out there!

I always enjoy watching the Paralympics on television and seeing the great achievements of really determined people, whatever their disability. As a child sport and exercise were an important part of my week, to keep my muscles moving.

I had hydrotherapy sessions once a week which I really loved, especially the bit at the end when I wasn't being stretched by my physio! I managed to earn some swimming badges through these sessions and my favourite achievement was having to swim in my pyjamas! I also went swimming at our local leisure centre every Saturday and sometimes Sunday. I liked the feeling that I could walk in the water and I used to worry people by spending so much time exploring underwater! We also had a 12ft above ground pool in our garden which we used during the summer. I still enjoy swimming, but the travelling and changing take longer than the swim, so it is tiring.

While I was at my first school the special needs children went every Thursday to the local Riding for the Disabled group. We all loved it and I continued riding every week until I was 14 with a lovely friend who came to help saddle up. This was a great way for me to get lots of fresh air as well as being able to keep my balancing muscles working. I always rode the same pony; Angel who was very special and I think she knew me, even though other children rode her. She would walk faster and faster on the homeward straight, as she always got a special treat when we'd finished!

I also went to ballet classes until I became too heavy to be held up. I really enjoyed joining in as much as I could, and in the circle dances I was pushed in my chair while I did the arm movements. I loved the music and again, feeling a full member of the group.

I would really encourage parents of children with physical disabilities to join in with any sport they feel interested in. It is a really good way to meet other children and feel part of a team. I found all the sports that I did much more enjoyable than my regular physio sessions!

Don't forget to write and tell me about your sporting experiences and achievements!

Lizzie Baily