Laid Low by Lyme Disease, 88-Year-Old Barbara Serena Finds Strength in Golf and Positive Attitude

BRAINTREE, Mass. – After battling a severe case of Lyme disease, Barbara Serena, an 88-year-old golf enthusiast, is using her favorite activities to aid in her recovery. Known for her positivity, Barbara looks forward to turning 90 on January 2, 2024, with excitement.

Recently, Barbara visited the Braintree Municipal Golf Course with her grandson Patrick Collins, 31, to enjoy a nine-hole game. With her short, curly white hair and snazzy black-and-white outfit, Barbara first greeted Ed Corcoran, a staff member at the pro shop, before heading to the first tee to meet the starter. Ahmed Raiss, a retired history teacher, assigned her an electric golf cart. After picking up her grandson, they embarked on their round, with Barbara playing from the red tee.

Barbara Serena, the oldest member of the Braintree Women’s Golf Association, is an inspiration to others. According to Denise Wessman, the assistant tournament director, Barbara “plays wonderfully and hits the ball well.” Barbara’s refusal to get discouraged and her active lifestyle, despite her age, are truly remarkable achievements.

Senior golfers are a growing demographic within the sport. The National Golf Foundation reports that senior golfers, those aged 50 and above, represent 26% of all golfers. Barbara herself started playing golf at the age of 60, and since then, her love for the sport has only grown. In fact, she achieved a hole-in-one at the age of 80.

In June, Barbara was diagnosed with Lyme disease, resulting in fatigue and neck pain. With medication and determination, she bounced back quickly. In addition to golf, Barbara resumed swimming in August and has also taken up bowling again with friends.

Barbara Serena’s active lifestyle and positive attitude are an inspiration to all. She encourages others to find an exercise they enjoy and to have fun with it. Barbara’s beliefs in her spiritual life also contribute to her resilience. She is a member of Our Lady of the Angels Parish and finds meditation and prayer to be sources of peace.

Reflecting on her life, Barbara realizes that the past 30 years have been the most fulfilling and happy of her life. She has gained self-confidence through her various accomplishments, such as golfing, swimming, and bowling.

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Daniel Miller

Daniel Miller takes readers to the greens with his passion for golf. He offers coverage of major golf tournaments, player achievements, and insights into the sport’s rich history, making him a trusted source for golf enthusiasts.