Stuart Padley of Glenrothes in Fife is a Royal Navy veteran who was given a medical discharge in 2020 aged 32 following a massive stroke.
And while there is nothing, sadly, that extraordinary about a medical discharge, the stroke left him with considerable weakness down the right-hand side of his body – again not that unusual.
But one of the things that makes Stuart stand apart from others is the sport he took up: archery.
More fascinating still is that, because of the weakness to his right side following the debilitating stroke, Stuart draws and releases the bow with his teeth.
Stuart is clearly accomplished at the sport, a sport he took up to keep himself fit and to keep his life and motivation on track. As if to underline his tenacity, Stuart is a silver medallist from the 2022 Invictus Games in The Netherlands and is training with the GB Para Academy. With the support of the Fife branch of SSAFA, the Armed Forces charity, his goal is to represent Great Britain in worldwide future events.
SSAFA Fife branch chairman George Givens said of Stuart:
“We in SSAFA Fife are delighted to be supporting Stuart in his bid to represent Great Britain in future world-class sporting competitions.
“Stuart embodies some of the best attributes of UK Armed Forces and particularly the Royal Navy. And while he demonstrates drive, dedication, and a never-say-die attitude that’s enviable, SSAFA is here for servicemen and women, past and present, and their families, because no-one should battle on alone.”
Stuart, who is also being supported the Royal Naval Benevolent Trust and BLESMA in his ambition, added:
“Since the life changing stroke, I cannot thank the military charities enough for the support received and opportunities given, and I feel very lucky.”
George ended, saying:
“For each person like Stuart that we’re supporting, there are countless more veterans and serving personnel in Fife, in Scotland, and in the rest of the UK who may need our help.
“No matter what achievements they have through their service, one of the bravest things these men and women can do is contact us when they need to, because we will help regardless of rank or regiment, ship or squadron.”
For more information, to fundraise, volunteer or access support, visit ssafa.org.uk/fife.
