Comfort zone

Hi, I'm Michael, and I'm a stroke survivor.

Over the weekend, I had the opportunity to assist with a program teaching survival skills to Scouts. The course is run by a Scout leader who is also a former SAS soldier, along with his team of bushcraft experts. I was blown away by their knowledge—especially the intricate details, like the many different ways to purify water depending on the types of pollutants you suspect are in it. My own army training certainly wasn’t that in-depth!

From scout to mentor

I’ve always loved camping and outdoor activities. I was a Scout myself when I was a boy, and I remember how various parents—including my dad—would help out at camps over the years. So, being able to give back to the next generation through this incredible organisation feels like a dream come true.

Stroke recovery and outdoor challenges 

The two main challenges I face since my stroke are with my speech and the fine motor skills in my right hand. So, from the outset, I found myself trying to communicate clearly with a group of teenagers who didn’t know me. I had to focus hard to make sure I was coherent and speaking loudly enough to be understood.

But the real challenge came with tying knots for their hootchies.

Let’s just say—when you’re still working on tying your shoelaces, wrapping paracord around a tree and securing it with a complicated knot is next level. I tried to appear confident in front of the kids, but this was difficult when I kept needing help from the other instructors. In reality, I was learning alongside the Scouts. Thank goodness for YouTube later that day for some extra instruction!

Raising awareness: the Hidden Disabilities Sunflower 

One of the leaders noticed my Hidden Disabilities Sunflower wristband and politely asked what it represented. He explained that he always watches for signs like that, as several of his Scouts are on the spectrum and may struggle with certain situations—or perhaps dislike being touched.

It was a thoughtful moment, and a reminder of how awareness and compassion go hand in hand in inclusive communities like Scouts.

Looking ahead: hoping for an invite back

Despite the challenges, it was a wonderful experience—and I sincerely hope they invite me back. It’s not always easy stepping outside your comfort zone, especially when you live with a disability. But this weekend proved that growth, connection, and joy often wait just beyond the edge of what we think we can do.