Kelly Bridges’ inspiring journey of recovery and resilience

21/03/2025

Two years ago, life for Kelly Bridges – PGA Professional at Broadstone Golf Club – changed dramatically. After suffering a shocking and unexpected stroke, she embarked on a journey of recovery that intertwined her career and passion for golf with her determination to heal. Here, Kelly shares her story – not just the challenges, but the victories along the way that have reshaped her outlook on life.

In the days leading up to her stroke, Kelly dismissed the painful cramps in her right foot, attributing them to long hours spent driving. But on a seemingly ordinary Sunday morning, everything changed. “I tried to get out of bed, sneezed, and found myself waking up hours later in the stroke unit of Southampton Hospital,” she recalled.

Her husband’s quick thinking in calling an ambulance proved critical. Receiving treatment within the described vital four-hour window meant she avoided surgery, with a clot-busting drug preventing further damage. However, tests later revealed a hole in her heart had allowed a clot to travel to her brain, requiring surgery at a later stage.

“Waking up in hospital was surreal,” she said. “I couldn’t speak. I knew the answers to the consultant’s questions, but the words eluded me. My right side was weak—I couldn’t even hold a spoon.” The following day, she was transferred to Bournemouth Hospital, where she spent five days in a ward predominantly occupied by elderly patients before being discharged to continue her recovery at home.

“I was overwhelmed by fatigue; even the simplest tasks left me exhausted. I struggled with aphasia, making communication a constant battle.”

For Kelly, NHS rehabilitation included six weeks of basic physiotherapy and speech support. “I often found myself frustrated with my progress. I was given lots of written exercise but struggled with tenses and even remembering four-digit numbers. My handwriting was ineligible and helping my son with his year 2 maths homework became a challenge.”

Throughout this difficult period, Kelly found invaluable support from The PGA. Feeling alone in her struggles, she was uplifted by personal interactions with David Wright, then Heritage and Member Support Executive of The PGA and the Benevolent Fund, a charity that helps PGA Members who have fallen on hard times.

“Just when I thought I was facing this battle on my own, David called my husband, and the support of the PGA Benevolent Fund stepped in. They funded additional physiotherapy and personal training sessions, which became a lifeline. My goal was clear: I wanted to return to coaching and playing golf.”

Using her PGA training and TPI (Titleist Performance Institute) knowledge alongside her physiotherapist, she assessed her limitations and set structured goals towards recovery. These included adapting her swing, improving strength, and regaining balance. Sharing her progress on social media, she documented both the struggles and the victories, determined to reach her ultimate goal—getting back to work.

A return to work required an NHS assessment, which she passed. While unable to drive, she was grateful that her golf club was within walking distance. The support from club members and clients was overwhelming. “One day, after a coaching session, I fell asleep in the clubhouse corner. Rather than waking me, the members let me rest,” she recalled.

“The stroke taught me to slow down and simplify my coaching, ensuring my clients fully understood my instructions.”

There were many frustrations. Well-meaning people often finished her sentences when she struggled for words. Relying on others for transport was difficult, and fatigue remained relentless. Meeting new people presented a dilemma—should she disclose her condition or carry on as usual?

Six months later, she led a group of supportive clients on a golf holiday—something she once thought impossible. A year on, she hosted a taster session for 20 women, guiding them through the driving range, short game area, and golf course. Coaching remained a crucial part of her identity, but demonstrating techniques was equally important, so she continued working on her own game.

She also accessed the PGA’s free mental health support line, which helped her reframe her mindset. “I learned to accept gradual change and celebrate what I can do instead of comparing myself to who I used to be.”

Looking ahead, Kelly is focused on continuing to coach and inspiring more women and girls to take up golf. She also hopes to return to competitive play, using her journey to support others facing similar challenges. “I want to compete again in WPGA and regional events, using my experience and knowledge to help others returning to golf after injury. This journey has given me a new perspective—I’ve learned the importance of time management, prioritising family and self-care, and knowing when to say no. I even took a month off in August to spend quality time with my loved ones.”

Financial concerns remain, particularly as she didn’t have insurance—something she now strongly urges others to consider. But she has gained a deeper appreciation for balance in life. “I’ve come to realise that while I can be replaced at work, I cannot be replaced at home. Before my stroke, life was a constant rush as a working mum with two children and a husband who frequently travelled for work. This experience has forced me to slow down and become more structured.”

“Two years on, I’m proud of the progress I’ve made. I eagerly anticipate the upcoming golf season, looking forward to playing more, coaching my current clients and introducing new people into the game.”

Through it all, Kelly’s journey has been one of resilience and patience—qualities she has embraced with gratitude. “I’m forever grateful for the unwavering support of my friends, family, and The PGA. The stroke profoundly impacted my life, but I refuse to let it define me. I’m excited to see what the future holds and ready to step out of my comfort zone, embracing every challenge that comes my way.”