Meet Lisa A: Finding Freedom and Community with Adaptive Sports

“Spaulding is a magical place,” says Lisa A Sims. “When I walk in the doors, there’s a positive energy in the air. I pick my head up higher and instantly feel better.”

The 64-year-old knows that feeling well—she’s a frequent visitor to Spaulding, between outpatient therapy visits and participating in Spaulding adaptive sports programs several times per week. She first came to Spaulding Rehabilitation Hospital after experiencing a stroke in 2012. During a stroke support group session, a speaker mentioned the Spaulding Adaptive Sports program—and Lisa was intrigued. “It turned into the best thing I could have ever done,” she says.

Spaulding’s Adaptive Sports Centers (SASC) is dedicated to helping people of all abilities participate in athletic and recreational activities. Over the past 20 years, SASC has grown to encompass almost 50 types of activities, offered online and in-person across three different regions in Massachusetts. It is a model for adaptive sports programming nationwide.

“When I’m participating in adaptive sports, I can let my guard down and feel free,” says Lisa, who regularly participates in adaptive cycling and yoga. “I can feel myself getting stronger.”

In addition to the advantages of physical activity, adaptive sports offer another benefit—community. “Being in the adaptive community is so rewarding,” Lisa says. “It’s like my own cheering squad! We gain strength from each other and become like family.”

“A stroke can be very lonely,” she says. “The instructors and therapists get it. It’s a different type of listening and understanding.”

Adaptive sports can be an important part of a holistic approach to healing and recovery. However, it’s not reimbursed by insurance or supported by traditional government grants. Our program is funded almost entirely by philanthropic support. Donor support fuels SASC’s efforts in programming, research, and education and advocacy, which is especially critical to effect change.

With two adult children with disabilities, Lisa is well-versed in the challenges this community faces. She recently completed a course on disability advocacy and government relations and has spent time at the Massachusetts state house speaking with legislators. “I’ve always been an advocate for my children and others with disabilities,” she says. “Now I’ve really found my purpose.”

She’s also found her strength to pursue that purpose, thanks in part to Spaulding and adaptive sports.