Gary continues his long fight for fitness

Three years ago PGA professional Gary Day’s life changed forever when, two weeks after falling from his bike, he was admitted to Leeds General Infirmary where a scan indicated he had suffered a stroke, writes David Birtill.

It affected the left side of his body and the right side of his brain. Part of his skull had to be removed to allow his swelling brain to expand without being squeezed after the doctors carried out a decompressive craniotomy.

Day, who played in the Open Championship at Royal Liverpool in 2006, recalled: “The stroke left me partially paralysed down my left side, unable to walk, could not use my left arm and there was some damage to my brain.

“This meant that my independence was limited by my physical functioning. My memory was not quite so good and it took me a little longer to do things than it used to.The restrictions proved extremely frustrating.”

Day, 45, was admitted to Daniel Yorath House in Garforth, a brain injury rehabilitation unit from where he was discharged last November and able to return to his Guiseley home.

“I’m still undergoing physio and attend a private clinic,” he said. “I’ve been told that over time my left arm might improve. If it’s anything like my leg, fingers crossed, it might turn out all right.

“Cookridge Hall relieved me of my position as general manager while I was still in hospital but since going home I have kept myself busy doing volunteer work for Leeds-based St Gemma’s Hospice alongside my continued passion of organising and hosting charity events at my local social club.

 “The PGA has extended huge support by regular contact and assistance with its benevolent fund, thanks to regular visits from director David Wright.

“My next charity evening is on September 7 and donations will go to the fund.”