PADDLER 50
PADDLER 50
emerging, and it would all be worth it. The first days after surgery, with tiny shoulder movements and the frustration they caused, felt like it was going to matter.
PADDLING FLAT WATER
The day finally came after nine weeks of recovery and healing, when I got back in my kayak. I paddled the flat water at Cardiff International White Water Centre. Although I felt stiff and it ached the whole time, the feeling of being back on the water was far better than I could have imagined. I felt unstable in my Firecracker, but I relished every second of feeling the water pass underneath my boat. Even just paddling in circles made me smile and brought me immense joy. I was on my way back to doing what I love and enjoy.
After ten weeks, my physiotherapy efforts were beginning to show, and I had completed a few flatwater paddles, including one at Chirk Aquaduct in North Wales. The time had come to get on a river with a bit more flow. I was super happy just to be back in a kayak, but I missed the feeling of moving water.
I travelled to Matlock for a paddle on the River Derwent. Although I had previously paddled this river numerous times before surgery, I had a fluttering feeling in my stomach this time: a mix of fear and excitement all at once.
Once on the water, I quickly reminded myself about edging, paddling slowly and practising breaking in and out. There were a few tears as it felt like I was back at square one. I felt as if I had lost so much skill, strength and confidence in my paddling ability. Fortunately, my partner, Alex, was there to help me see that I could still paddle and that I would be fine. He completely and consistently believed in me throughout my paddling and recovery journey. For that, I am forever grateful.
After a while, the look of nervousness and concern faded, leaving a sense of calm. A few weeks later, I returned to the Derwent with increased confidence. I played the river, even with it being so low: rock spinning, surfing and tailing. It was reassuring to know that my roll was still there, even when exhausted.