I have spent this past week on crutches, following a dislocated knee on the rugby field. If I had a pound for every time someone has said “what have you done?”, or “don’t you think you are too old to play rugby?. And yes, before you ask it hurt!
I am very grateful for the prompt action from the Club physio, the ambulance crew that attended and the subsequent care from Brecon Minor Injuries Unit. It reinforces to me how important it is to have local healthcare services. I was lucky that I could have treatment in the local community hospital. Many constituents tell me of 12hour plus waits in A&E departments when they are seriously unwell.
To me, rubgy and exercise is my escape from the stresses and strains in life. It keeps me sane and I am a big believer that engaging in sport and outdoor activity, or even just a walk down the road, can have a positive benefit on a person’s mental health. It is just as important to look after your mental health as it is your physical health.
Getting around on crutches has been an eye-opener for me. Planning where are the ramps or lifts, thinking how do I carry my belongings, leaving more time to get somewhere – and all of that is in places that are familiar to me! It has given me an insight into the life of those less abled and the planning and forethought that has to go into every journey, every meeting, every trip.
Pre the injury, I was at the Conservative Party Conference in Llandudno. It was good to meet with Farmers protesting outside and hear their concerns. I had a cap made saying #No Farmers No Food. Our Prime Minister Rishi Sunak signed the cap and it was auctioned off at the evening dinner. I am pleased to say that the £350 raised will be shared between DPJ Foundation and RABI - two local mental health charities that do so much to help the farming community.
