Life changing

How Baz fought back against polio

Barry 'Baz' Grayson, 57, is unique. He’s the youngest and last polio sufferer in the UK. He was just four months old when he lost the use of his legs.

Throughout his life, he and his disabled wife felt like loners – stared at in public, called names and forgotten about. They struggled to make friends and lived an isolated life, preferring to keep to themselves with their young son for company.

Baz had always had a love of hockey – an interest that he passed onto his son, encouraging him to take part in roller hockey while he helped out with the team from the sidelines.

While watching the Paralympics he was inspired to get involved with National Lottery-funded Sheffield Steelkings, an ice hockey team that welcomes able and disabled players.

After a few years of playing for the team, Baz’s life changed when his wife passed away. The team rallied round and gave him a new purpose and friendship. He soon realised he needed the Steelkings and the support they provided both on and off the ice.

“I'm addicted to the Steelkings, it's fantastic to be part of this team. They are my family and I love each and every one of them! I’m so proud to put on my Steelkings jersey and try and do my best. They are, quite simply, what I live for.”

Watch Baz and the awesome team in action.

By playing The National Lottery you've helped fund the Sheffield Steelkings, proud winners of The National Lottery Awards 2018.

13th August 2019

The National Lottery has been changing the lives of winners and supporting good causes across the UK since 1994. In that time, there have been more than 7,000 new millionaires created and by playing The National Lottery you raise over £4 million for Good Causes every dayΔ.

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