Bouncing back
Gracemere Bowls Club bowler Phil Jackson has bounced back after a debilitating stroke.
Gracemere Bowls Club may be a small club but it holds a wealth of skilled bowlers with club member Phil Jackson a testament to Gracemere’s pool of talent.
He recently won the Champion of Champion Men’s Singles title for Central Queensland, which was no small feat as he had suffered a stroke only two and a half years earlier.
Prior to the stroke, Phil says he was a “lucky bowler” winning many titles to his credit.
Since the stroke he has had to relearn how to do the everyday things we all take for granted, such as walking and talking – even eating was a constant battle.
Throughout his recovery, Phil had one main goal, which was to be able to bowl again.
Many months of rehab and hard work followed as he soldiered on through physical, speech and occupational therapy as he fought to reach his main goal.
Phil’s first roll-up was only six ends and by the end he was exhausted, his first carnival back took him weeks to get over as the fatigue he endured afterwards was harsh on his body.
However, with determination he stuck with it and this year has been a resounding success, starting with his win in the Annual Hook Anderson Carnival.
Phil went on to win the men’s A grade singles at Gracemere, as well as the annual Bill Green Memorial carnival.
Despite his hard work, Phil says he attributes his success following the stroke to those around him who supported him during his recovery.
“I’m really proud of what I’ve managed to achieve since the stroke,” Phil said.
“I’d like to thank everyone who has supported me throughout my recovery, be it on the green or off, as without your help I would not have been able to get to where I am now.”
Phil says he thinks clubs should help support Stroke Awareness, as strokes do not discriminate and can strike anyone at any time.
To learn more about strokes and the symptoms please visit the Stroke Foundation website: www.strokefoundation.org.au
