Paralympic pioneer Margaret Gibbs reflects on legacy amid health challenges

Margaret Gibbs, an 87-year-old Paralympian from Abbotskerswell, has dedicated her life to breaking barriers for disabled athletes and inspiring generations. Now in the care of Rowcroft Hospice following a recent cancer diagnosis, Margaret reflects on her storied career and the invaluable support she’s receiving from the South Devon community hospice.

Margaret, who competed in three consecutive Paralympic Games from 1964, has been a trailblazer in British sports, amassing 23 medals across the Paralympic and Commonwealth Games. Her achievements span sports as varied as wheelchair basketball, archery, javelin, and swimming. A wheelchair user since the age of 12 due to polio, Margaret found her passion for sports early on, crediting her entry into competitive athletics to a chance encounter at her local swimming club. "I was lucky to be in the right place at the right time,” she recalls, noting that she was spotted at her local pool in Croydon just as Sir Ludwig Guttmann, founder of the Paralympic Movement, was seeking competitors.

Representing Great Britain across several disciplines, Margaret's accomplishments include eight gold, nine silver, and six bronze medals. Reflecting on her athletic journey, she said: "It was an amazing time; I had no idea I was going to do so well, and I felt so honored to be representing Great Britain." Her contributions were formally recognised in 1972 when she was named Sportswoman of the Year by the Sports Writers’ Association.

Following her athletic career, Margaret relocated to South Devon with her husband in 1966, where they founded a local sports association for athletes with disabilities. Their initiative has provided countless people with the opportunity to explore sports, fostering community and empowerment. "We felt we were really achieving something, and it changed people's lives," she shared. "The Paralympics are such a big thing now, and I often wonder what Sir Ludwig Guttmann would think if he could see how far we've come."

Margaret's daughter, Amanda, expressed admiration for her mother’s resilience and legacy, saying: "She's an incredible person; nothing ever stopped her in life. She's been a fantastic role model, and it's quite difficult to live up to."

Recently diagnosed with cancer, Margaret has been receiving palliative care at Rowcroft Hospice, which has been a source of comfort and stability. "The staff were amazing—so caring and empathic—and I can't praise them enough,” said Margaret. “Many people think you only go into the hospice at the end of life, but that isn’t true. I received excellent care and am now able to be back at home, with Rowcroft still keeping in touch.”

Rowcroft Hospice, a cornerstone of South Devon for over 40 years, continues to face financial challenges due to rising costs and a national decline in charitable giving. As demand for end-of-life care services grows, Rowcroft stresses the need for community support to ensure its vital services can continue. Amanda credits the hospice’s care with enabling her mother to transition home comfortably: "It’s a wonderful place, offering a level of support that truly makes a difference during such a difficult time."

Margaret Gibbs’ story not only highlights her legacy but underscores Rowcroft Hospice’s commitment to providing compassionate, high-quality care. For more information or to support Rowcroft Hospice, visit www.rowcrofthospice.org.uk