First meeting of The Chair Syndicate for local wheelchair users

SARAH Eade lives in Port Macquarie and is married with two children. Aged 38, she is in the prime of her life.

In 2019, a workplace injury led to surgery on her spine.

This resulted in a spinal cord injury that left Sarah needing to use a wheelchair full time.

While her peers are working and planning a future full of travel and new experiences, her days are often consumed by medical appointments and associated paperwork.

This has motivated Sarah to help set up a chapter of The Chair Syndicate in the Port Macquarie region; a social group designed specifically for wheelchair users.

Her goal is to coordinate fun social events designed specifically for wheelchair users of any age.

Their inaugural outing was last Saturday at Delizioso in Laurieton.

“Creating new social connections with other wheelchair users via The Chair Syndicate is so important,” Sarah told News Of The Area.

“It is crucial to have a social outlet with people that truly get the struggle and day to day challenges we face.

“We laugh about things others wouldn’t understand and there’s a feeling of belonging and being a part of something fun while making meaningful connections and friendships.”

The first Chair Syndicate was started in Newcastle by Tania Lewis.

She told News Of The Area, “The Chair Syndicate focuses on strength, identity, independence and community.

“Inspired by the brotherhood and sisterhood culture found in motorcycle clubs, we are aiming to build a similar sense of crew, loyalty, and belonging, but with a disability empowerment focus.

“Our motto is ‘No pity. Just power’.”

Sarah’s plans for the Port Macquarie group include wheelchair skills classes, an obstacle race for wheelchairs, and a cocktail making class.

For more information email onestarfishoneocean@gmail.com.

By Rachael THORPE