Backup World Cup wheelchair travels across the world in stranger's luggage
A radio call-out in Ireland has sparked a successful international effort to get a specialised replacement rugby league wheelchair sent to Sydney in time for a game today.
Irish player Oran Spain lost his wheelchair during training for the Wheelchair Rugby League World Cup in Wollongong. He urgently needed a replacement, as the only other one suited to his small stature was back in Ireland. Oran's mother, Susan Spain, and uncle Austin Smith launched a search, contacting Irish radio for assistance.
Deirdre Donoghue, a tourist, heard the call and volunteered to bring the chair to Sydney. The wheelchair was transported on her flights and arrived at Sydney Airport just in time for her to meet Oran and his mother at the airport. Oran expressed his gratitude, stating that the new wheelchair would allow him to achieve his dream of playing in the World Cup.
Wheelchairs for wheelchair rugby are highly specialized and expensive, costing between $4,000 to $9,000 each. Oran's replacement wheelchair, donated by Deirdre, will enable him to compete and fulfill his ambition of representing his country.
Written by urgent.news from ABC News AU's reporting — not their text. Machine-written — may contain errors; check the original before relying on it.
