Living with my Brain Injury

Emma learns how to sail

 Something I’ve never tried before, is sailing. It’s always good to try new things to see how your brain responds and to learn new skills. This helps to create new neural pathways in the brain. I visited the gorgeous Barton Broads in Norfolk on a hot August afternoon. It feels a long time ago now, as we are in winter. I was visiting The Nancy Oldfield Trust who according to their website, “offer accessible accommodation, motor cruising, sailing, canoeing and pedal launches, all on the Norfolk Broads.”

 The boat was moored at our starting point, Lime Kiln Dyke where we sailed out onto Barton Broad. Here is a video of my aquatic adventures learning how to hoist a sail, use the rudder to steer and haul rope to guide the sail for speed and changing direction.

I was assigned a great instructor called Mark Elson, who took me out on a small sailing dinghy called a Yeoman, which is big enough for 2 to 3 crew. I was able to take my support worker as well, so that we could capture some of the exciting moments on the broad.   Before we climbed aboard, he explained a bit about the Trust and how they assist their clients, who may have restricted mobility.

Once back on land after a very exciting time, I met some of the other clients who were staying on site for the week. We met Jan and Julie who were two of 4 mum's and 4 sons that have been coming sailing for 21 years. They told us how they go out on a different craft each day during the week, using canoes, paddle boarding, sailing and paddle boats.

I was there for half a day which normally costs £18 and there is a bursary available for those that need it.

Please visit their website for more information https://www.nancyoldfield.org.uk/

Headway “Lived Experience Communicator” and Podcasts

I have been working with Headway Norfolk and Waveney for three years. My role is attending their coffee mornings at The Forum. Helping those who have either recently had an ABI or those that were not aware of Headway. It gives them a gateway to meeting others and also going on to other classes or activities. I love attending these and talking to groups of up to 15 people and it has helped me tremendously and built my confidence, dealing with people on their own journey.

Another part of my role has been interviewing clients who I have met there or at the Headway centre in Norwich.  The UEA has kindly allowed me to use their recording studios and we have just finished Series 3 of the Headpods. 

If you would like to listen to these, here is the link:

Headpods | Headway Norfolk and Waveney (headway-nw.org.uk)

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The content on this platform is produced by Emma Martins, Lived Experience Communicator, in collaboration with her support worker. All views expressed herein are solely those of Emma Martins and her support worker, and they do not necessarily reflect the opinions or positions of Headway Norfolk and Waveney.

It is essential to note that the content shared represents personal experiences and is not intended as professional advice. For medical guidance and assistance, especially if you require specific healthcare recommendations, it is strongly advised to consult with qualified medical professionals, including your general practitioner (GP). The information provided on this platform should not be considered a substitute for personalised medical advice, diagnosis, or treatment. Headway Norfolk and Waveney disclaims any liability arising from reliance on the information presented here for medical decision-making. Always consult with healthcare professionals for accurate and personalised guidance based on your individual circumstances.