Henry Ford Medical Offers Golf Program For Physically Challenged

I’m all for broadening the reach and appeal of the game of golf. So I was pleased to see that Michigan’s own Henry Ford Medical Center is sponsoring a golf program for the disabled:

Henry Ford Prepares Physically Challenged for Golf

ALLEN PARK — Golf is again within the reach of the physically challenged. Fore the Swing of It, sponsored by Henry Ford Health System’s Rehabilitation Center in Allen Park, is a two-day program to re-introduce golf to the physically challenged adult and to offer a recreational outlet to people who have sustained a physical injury or permanent disability.

Training will include: basic golf instruction/skill development by local golf professionals at a driving range and a golf scramble at Dearborn Hills golf course.

The program will be held:

  * 11 a.m. Wednesday, May 26, at the Michigan Golf Center, 30000 Michigan Ave. in Inkster.
  * 10:30 a.m. Wednesday, June 2, at Dearborn Hills Golf Course, 1300 S. Telegraph, in Dearborn.

The program is open to anyone who has an injury at any level of experience. The cost is $35 for first-time participants and $25 for returnees.

The program was created several years ago by Barbara Bishop, a Henry Ford physical therapist, and Bill Ellington, a Henry Ford physical therapist assistant. They are among those who help participants with balance and other physical components of the game. Volunteers, including professional golf instructors, round out the retraining team.

It is recommended that participants bring their own equipment, but it is not necessary. Adaptive equipment will be provided.

The registration deadline is May 14. Call (313) 389-5600 for additional information.