Visit from a Paralympian

Last week the Senior Syndicate were visited by a real Paralympian - Gary McMurray. He represented NZ in wheelchair rugby and won a bronze and gold medal. He spoke to us about how he was injured and how it has affected his life. Then he told us about his Olympic experience. We all felt he was inspirational and many of us will now set our own goals and strive to achieve them.

 

 

We wrote letters to thank Gary for visiting and included some of our thoughts and feelings ....

"The most interesting part was when you told us about being in hospital and how you had to wear a metal headband around your head with bullets to hold it in place. I felt really sad for you and probably everyone else did too.... You also inspired me to follow my dreams and even though you may get injured this should not stop you." (Meleseini)

"The whole time you were there I was hooked! You have given me inspiration to chase my dreams no matter what stands in my way. The words on the board gave me even more inspiration; success, challenging and attitude....I hope you can visit Sunnybrae soon and see how we have used your inspirational words." (Esther)

"My most favourite part was seeing your medals and touching them. The most interesting part was when we saw you wheelchair. I loved how it had tiny wheels at the back to stabilize the chair and allow it to turn sharply." (Nikki)

"We have learned a lot from you like treating people with problem the way you would like to be treated and how you can still work towards goals even if you are injured. The most important message you gave us is to never give up and never stop doing what you enjoy." (Angus)

 "I was very excited to see you because you won a medal in the Paralympic Games. You have helped me closer to my dreams of being an Gold medalist in the Olympics with your words challenge, success, and attitude." (Rachel)

"I learned that no matter what you can still do what you love...You are my paralympian inspiration." (Melefa)

"What I thought was the most interesting was your medals. The best one was from Sydney as Sydney is one of my favourite city's. What I learned was to always keep a good attitude and to challenge myself. Something to aim for would be smarter, faster, stringer and higher." (Losa)