How Kath Tanner is driving participation for other female amputees.

On the greens of the golf course, where each shot is a blend of skill and serenity, Kath Tanner stands out – not just for her impressive swing, but for her incredible journey of resilience and empowerment. A journey that, in her own words, is filled with “more than just shots and putts, but with laughter, learning and living fully”.

In 2010, Kath’s life took an unexpected turn during a trip overseas. While travelling in the UK, a catastrophic bus accident left her an amputee, altering her life forever. “I remember feeling like I was in a concrete mixer,” Kath recounts. The accident claimed her left foot and part of her right hand, among other injuries. It was a moment that could have broken anyone, but for Kath, it was just the beginning of a remarkable story of courage and determination.

Stranded far from home in a London hospital, Kath set an ambitious goal: to return home for her son’s ninth birthday, just five weeks later. With humour as her healing balm and an indomitable spirit, she achieved this feat. “Laughing heals,” she says, a philosophy that guided her through the toughest times. Her recovery was a testament to her belief in the power of a positive mindset.

Kath’s acceptance of her new reality was swift but not without challenges. “I was angry, but I knew some things are out of our control,” she reflects. She recalls signing consent forms for surgeries with a pen in her mouth, a striking symbol of her desire to take control and make decisions for herself. This attitude was crucial for her mental health and self-advocacy.

Kath had always had a passion for sport and recreational activity, and her love for sports found new expression post-accident. From wheelchair basketball to joining an adult dance class, she embraced physical activities with enthusiasm. Remarkably, just four months after getting her first prosthetic leg, she was back on the hockey field. Golf, however, holds a special place in her heart. It’s a weekly ritual that not only aids her physical fitness but also brings immense joy and a sense of community. 

On the lush fairways of her favourite golf courses, Kath is not just playing a game; she’s spearheading a movement. With her active involvement in amputee golf associations throughout Australia, Kath is at the forefront of a mission to bring the game of golf to those who live with limb loss, especially women.

Kath is a current board member of Amputee Golf Victoria, a not-for-profit organisation that aims to open doors for amputees to discover and nurture their love for golf. In the coming years, Kath hopes to play a pivotal role in helping other women who experience limb loss discover and enjoy the many benefits the game of golf has to offer.

“Golf isn’t just about physical rehabilitation; it’s a sanctuary for mental well-being during challenging times,” she says.

Kath sees AGV’s core principle of providing a safe and supportive community as essential in drawing more female amputees to golf. Her own vision is clear and compelling – to see more female amputees embracing the game.

“Finding a community you love, engaging in activities that bring joy – that’s crucial,” Kath says.

She views golf as a perfect blend of physical activity and social interaction, essential for holistic rehabilitation.

Kath’s journey in golf, however, has its bittersweet moments. “Currently, I’m the only female amputee golfer playing competitively, which sometimes feels lonely,” she shares. Yet, this solitude on the course doesn’t dampen her spirit; instead, it fuels her determination to inspire more women to join her on this empowering journey.

In late May, Amputee Golf Victoria took a significant step forward in attracting more female amputees to golf by hosting a “Come and Try” event at the majestic Metropolitan Golf Club in Melbourne’s south-east. Kath played host as participants took part in an introductory golf clinic, followed by a casual lunch where guests were able to connect and share powerful conversations with other amputees. As host, Kath wasn’t just sharing her story; she was passing on her infectious passion for a sport that has brought her immense happiness.

Today, as Kath lines up for another shot on the golf course, her presence is a powerful narrative of overcoming adversity. Her journey is not just about adapting to life as an amputee but about embracing it with zest, humour and an unyielding spirit.

Kath Tanner is not just playing golf; she’s rewriting the rules of resilience, one swing at a time, and encouraging others to do the same.