As I sit here in the stunning Vasiliki, surrounded by azure waves and the rhythmic whisper of the wind, I can’t help but reflect on the beauty of doing things differently. This place is nothing short of magical, and the windsurfing here is truly unparalleled. Every year, my friend and I embark on an adventure, exploring new corners of the world together. We usually plan our trips towards the end of the season, allowing us to indulge in our passion without straining our wallets.
This year, however, was destined to be memorable for reasons I hadn’t anticipated. Just three days into our trip, I found myself in a tuition class learning an unconventional technique: coming out of a gybe with my feet in the opposite position to what felt natural. Initially, it was uncomfortable and wobbly; I struggled to maintain my balance as I adjusted to this new stance on the board. Yet, the instructor assured us that becoming accustomed to this change would enhance our agility and control in stronger winds.
With determination, I pushed through my initial struggles, managing three shaky switch-foot exits before my fourth attempt took an unfortunate turn. As I attempted to navigate the turn, I encountered an obstruction and had to abort. It wasn’t particularly windy, and I was close to shore, but in a twist of fate, I ended up twisting my ankle as I left the board. The pain was excruciating, and it wasn’t until a visit to the hospital confirmed that I had broken it that I truly grasped the seriousness of my situation.
What’s remarkable is how quickly life can change. One moment, I’m gliding across the water, and the next, I find myself grappling with the loss of mobility in my right leg, relying on my friend for the simplest tasks. I’m immensely grateful for his patience and good humour during this challenging time. Watching others enjoy the water while I sat on the sidelines was a new experience for me. I’ve always been out there, relishing the thrill, but seeing so many people engaged in something I love was a different kind of enjoyment. As the days pass, I’m slowly coming to terms with how my daily life will need to adapt.
This unexpected turn of events has forced me to rethink how I approach everyday activities. I’m learning to navigate this new reality, getting around in a wheelchair and mastering crutches. I’m discovering that adjusting my “rules” is not just necessary but ultimately beneficial. It’s an opportunity to build resilience and embrace change.
At Bottomley Opticians, we’ve always prided ourselves on being a bit different, and that’s not going to change. We’re committed to using that uniqueness to become better—whether through innovative eye care solutions, distinctive eyewear, or personalised service. Just like my windsurfing experience, life is about adapting and learning to embrace challenges.
So, while I may be sidelined for now, I refuse to let this setback deter my passion for windsurfing. I’ll be back on the water, stronger and more determined than ever. For now, I’m focusing on the lessons this journey has taught me: to be adaptable, to embrace change, and to find joy in doing things differently.
Here’s to new adventures—both on and off the water!
