Christine Lawn

CatWalk talks to Christine Lawn, Author and Mother

CW: What has caused you to be in a chair and when did it occur?

CL: I was a jockey who had a race day fall on 9 February 2002. There was a fracture of L2 and 100% dislocation between L1 and L2

CW: Are you a paraplegic, tetraplegic or a quadriplegic?

CL: Paraplegic

CW: Have you had any surgery that you think has been of particular benefit e.g. Steel rods?

CL: I was fixed with rods and screws from T12 to L4 due to my injury and the dislocation being so great. This was the only option.

CW: What is your gym/work out regime?

CL: ...laughing...! I don’t have one anymore! Before the birth of my son I regularly worked in a pool at physio but the only therapy I do now is riding at Mid Canterbury RDA. This is an immense help and awesome therapy. Highly recommended!

CW: Who or what has been your key support i.e. Medical and personal?

CL: My parents Joan and Bryan Lawn, my partner Daniel, Mid Canterbury RDA

CW: Tell us about your job.

CL: I am a Mum! Best job in the world and most rewarding. Best cure for being in a chair too I reckon!

CW: Have you had to make any specific alterations to the work place and/or home?

CL: Yes. Wet area shower, kitchen alterations and ramps outside for access.

CW: What has been one of your most satisfying achievements since being in a chair?

CL: Having my son Cody, releasing a book called One Stroppy Jockey and competing in Dressage. My next goal is to represent my country at the Paralympics in Dressage.

CW: Is there anything else you think may be of interest to our readers?

CL: If they want to help me reach my goal of getting to the Paralympics, a Trust account has been set up with the National Bank called The Ashburton Para Equestrian Trust fund. The fund is set up for all Para’s in the area who want to get to the Paralympics. Jenny Lott is another Para Equestrian in the area with the same dream as me. I’m riding her horse U Patrick. She needs to get another horse! Jenny isn’t a paraplegic, she just has one buggered leg. Between the two of us we have one good leg but four good arms! ...laughs!... She is an awesome person to let me have Paddy and she is also my coach. Also my book might be an interesting read!

CW: Thanks for talking to us.

http://www.ashburtonguardian.co.nz/index.asp?articleid=9298

Christine’s book – One Stroppy Jockey

It’s the story of Christine’s courageous struggle in the Burwood spinal unit, her determination to find a new independence, and her spirited resolve to walk again.