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Coach's Pride: Amputee Football Star Honored
13 Oct
Summary
- Amputee football coach Elaine Oakey received a Pride of Britain award.
- She has dedicated over a decade to helping young amputees through football.
- Elaine transformed the lives of children facing similar challenges to her son.
Amputee football coach Elaine Oakey has been honored with a Pride of Britain award, recognizing over a decade of transformative work with young amputees. Comedian Jason Manford presented the P&O Cruises Inspiration award during a training session with the England Amputee Football Association Juniors in Nantwich, Cheshire. Oakey, visibly emotional, expressed her disbelief and joy at receiving the prestigious accolade.
Inspired by her son Jamie, who faced exclusion from football due to his prosthetic, Elaine became a fierce advocate for inclusivity. She successfully lobbied for a dedicated junior amputee football program, which now serves around 70 children annually. Elaine's roles as Head of EAFA Juniors and Head of Safeguarding provide a crucial lifeline for these young individuals.
Through weekend camps in Cheshire and Blackpool, Elaine coaches, mentors, and fundraises, creating a supportive community for children with limb differences. Parents like Michelle Dyal and Mark Newman attest to Elaine's profound impact, describing her as a "liferaft" and a source of light during challenging times. Arthur, who lost a leg to cancer, and Isabelle, born without an arm, both highlight how Elaine's program has become a safe space for them.
Elaine also dedicates her free time to cleaning and working in a local pub, using her earnings to support the team or provide Sunday roast dinners for vulnerable community members. Her selfless commitment has been lauded by Jason Manford, who called for more individuals like Elaine, and by her son Jamie, who calls her a "real-life superhero."
