James's Story: "Joining Walking Football was beyond anything I could have hoped for"

At age 46, James underwent surgery for a non-malignant cyst on his brain – the next day in hospital he suffered a stroke and was paralysed down his left side.

James used a wheelchair for six months, navigating life with a brain injury as he did all he could to regain his independence.

Doctors recommended James exercise to limit seizures, but it 14 years of recovery before he could consider playing sport.

With signposting from a specialist charity, James was invited to join the Foundation’s specialist walking football sessions supporting participants with acquired brain injuries to enjoy staying active safely.

James had never played football before but was euphoric after his first session.

His confidence has improved so much, James now joins regular walking football session and is enjoying every minute of making up for lost time.