For Anthony Keenan, every day is a challenge.
The Barngarla man suffers from a rare brain condition that affects every part of his life.
“I suffer from a condition called spinal cerebellar ataxia, a neurological degenerative condition,” he told NITV.
“It affects my speech, balance, motor skills, my memory. Daily life is a struggle.”
The diagnosis was a big blow. A keen sportsman who grew up playing Rugby League, Anthony was devastated when he was told he would never play sport again.
But remarkably, the 48-year-old isn’t letting that debilitating brain disease hold him back from his dreams of making his mark in the world of golf.
“I first saw disability golf played at the Australian Open,” he said.
“Cameron Pollard was playing and that was my first taste and discovery of disability golf.”
'Go out there and do it'
With the help of a support worker, Keenan hits the green most days.
With the help of a support worker, Keenan plays four or five times a week, including on Saturdays at Rosewood Golf Club.
Anthony is Barngala on his grandmother's side.
"Nan was taken when she was 4 years of age," he said.
“It wasn't until my grandma died that we found out that she was actually Stolen Generation.
“My journey to find out who I am and where I come from is one that continues to this day."
Anthony’s next goal is to feature in the Australian Open. It’s a steep mountain to climb, but he believes he can do it.
He hopes his story will inspire others, especially those dealing with a tough medical diagnosis or physical disabilities.
“If you're passionate about something and you want to do it, go out there and do it,” he said.
“I was sitting at home, wasting away on the couch doing nothing before I found disability golf and it's the best thing that I've done.
“If someone out there reads this, if my story inspires them to get out and do something that made my day.”
