Heidi's Story - Neuro Walking Football
When Heidi was diagnosed with Parkinson's disease six years ago, she faced an uncertain future. Receiving her diagnosis shortly before the COVID-19 pandemic meant she had time to come to terms with her condition, but as restrictions lifted, finding opportunities to stay active and socialise became increasingly difficult.
Living with Parkinson's brought challenges that extended beyond her physical health. Heidi found herself becoming more withdrawn, with fewer opportunities to meet people and take part in activities she enjoyed. As she describes it, life with Parkinson's can become very small.
Having never played football before, Heidi was understandably apprehensive when she first attended Swansea City AFC Foundation's Neuro Walking Football sessions. However, within just ten minutes, her nerves had disappeared thanks to the welcoming atmosphere and encouragement of the Foundation's coaches.
What began as an opportunity to exercise soon became an important part of Heidi's life. As one of the first participants to join the programme, she developed friendships, gained confidence and discovered a passion for a sport she had never previously considered playing.
Those friendships have extended far beyond the weekly sessions. From meeting teammates for coffee and supporting one another through the challenges of living with neurological conditions, to travelling to St George's Park with a team formed through the group, Heidi has experienced opportunities she never imagined possible.
The programme has also benefited from the involvement of professional footballer Stacey John, through the Premier League and PFA Players' Fund. Stacey has played an important role in designing and supporting the sessions, offering encouragement at a particularly difficult time when the group faced funding challenges.
For Heidi, having someone with Stacey's experience and passion take such a genuine interest in the group provided reassurance and motivation to continue.
The difference in Heidi has been clear to those around her. Shauna Thornhill, Health and Wellbeing Officer at Swansea City AFC Foundation, has watched her develop from someone who had never played football into a confident, enthusiastic participant who is now an integral part of the weekly sessions.
Heidi's journey is not simply about learning to play football. It is about finding friendship, rebuilding confidence and discovering that a Parkinson's diagnosis does not have to prevent her from enjoying new experiences.
Through Neuro Walking Football, Heidi has found a community that understands her challenges, celebrates her achievements and gives her something positive to look forward to each week. As she explains, having that support provides something incredibly important when living with a progressive condition: hope.