JIM Anderson may have retired from competitive swimming after the London 2012 Paralympics, but he has not been idle.
As well as coaching other swimmers, playing boccia and taking part in some athletics events, Jim has written a story, his story.
Born with cerebral palsy, Jim’s parent’s, John and Brenda, were told not to expect too much from him as he might have learning difficulties as well as physical difficulties.
They certainly couldn’t have expected their son to go onto be a British Wheelchair Disco Champion, nor an international swimmer competing at six Paralympic Games, countless British, European and World Championships providing him with a successful career which saw him win over 400 medals.
He has been working with retired occupational therapist, Sally North, who became Jim’s hands and most importantly his scribe.
Entitled ‘Jim the Swim – A story of determination to live life to the full’, the book is a journey through Jim’s childhood, school days and much celebrated swimming career, which somewhat surprisingly only started at the age of 28.
Asked about writing the book, Jim said: “I wanted to write the book after the Games in London. I approached Sally at my church and she agreed to help me.
“It’s taken over two years to write and we have shared good and bad times together, but we both agree it has been a positive experience.”
Sally agreed with this and commented: “Jim’s mental organisational skills are amazing, and as someone who has to make lists for everything, I have found working with Jim both inspiring and a great pleasure.”
In 2004, Jim was voted BBC Scotland Sports Personality of the Year and was appointed MBE in the 2005 New Year Honours.
He was awarded the OBE in the 2009 Birthday Honours. His remarkable medal haul includes six Paralympic Golds, nine Paralympic Silvers and two Paralympic Bronze medals
The book is published through Authorhouse, a self-publishing service for authors in the UK and around the globe.
The book’s foreword has been provided by Sir Chris Hoy, who said: “I know only too well how much effort is needed to attain international selection, gold medals and world records; the slog of training, putting a social life on hold and the discipline required.
“Disability sport is no different from able-bodied sport in that respect and Jim has excelled at British, European, World and Paralympic Championships for many years.”
Leaving the last word to Jim, the 52 year-old explained why he wanted to publish his story,
“I have been fortunate to travel the world, and through hard work, commitment and the unwavering support of my parents, I have been successful in a number of areas.
“I want to inspire people, not only those with cerebral palsy, but parents of children with cerebral palsy. I have known no other life so wanted to make the most of the one I was given. I hope my story allows people to see that the only boundaries you come across are often those you put on yourself.”
Paperback £9.95 (plus £2.50 P&P) or Hardback £17.95 (plus £3.50 P&P)
Copies of Jim’s life story are available from:
jimanderson_swim@hotmail.com or sallynorth@blueyonder.co.uk
Also available as ebook for download for £3.99 from:
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