Family thanks Coffs for wheelchair

THE family of teenager Duncan Sawyer, who broke his neck in a fall from his pushbike, has thanked the community of Coffs Harbour for raising $5000 to help purchase a wheelchair.

Duncan’s mother, Donna Ford, said the generosity of locals was astounding.

Her son was left a quadriplegic when he fell from his pushbike near Macauleys Beach.

The 19-year-old continues to make steady progress in rehabilitation in Sydney.

“He has got some feeling back in his arms but is still without the use of his hands, however, he has been able to use a manual wheelchair through the use of his wrists.

Since his accident, Duncan has also been a regular at the Canterbury Bulldogs matches this season.

“The club has made Duncan a life member, they have been really supportive,” she said.

Russell Crowe donated a signed Rabbitohs jersey to be auctioned off.

“We also wish to thank two special families who have been very supportive throughout Duncan’s very difficult time, the Scanes and the Ewings. Duncan says thank you,” she added.