Wheelchair Meet for Kids Scheduled June 5

Editor's note: The following news release was received from Bridgeport Hospital and was corrected at 4:35 p.m. Tuesday to indicate that June 5 is a Sunday.

Wheelchair-dependent children 18 and under are invited to take part in a day of fun at the Cardinal Shehan Center, 1494 Main Street, Bridgeport, on Sunday June 5, from 1 to 4 p.m., when the Ahlbin Rehabilitation Centers Auxiliary sponsors its 14th annual Wheelchair Meet.

“This is an opportunity for children in wheelchairs to share a good time together, get some exercise and interact with our staff,” says Suzanne Starr, the Ahlbin Centers' physical therapist who launched the meet in 1998 with the financial support of the Auxiliary.

The Wheelchair Meet consists of several events, including an obstacle course, ball-throwing contest and distance races from 25 to 800 meters. Children participate in a number of categories, based on age, gender and skill level. The entry fee of $5 includes a T-shirt. Proceeds will support Ahlbin Centers programs.

For information or to register, call 203-336-7326. Volunteers are also being sought to help with the event.

“We even have a motorized wheelchair category,” says Starr. “It’s a wonderful event, not only for the children who take part, but also for their families. They all have something in common—they provide each other with mutual support and inspiration.

Each year, the meet draws approximately 50 children with conditions ranging from cerebral palsy to severe arthritis and traumatic brain injury, according to Starr.

The rehabilitation medicine arm of Bridgeport Hospital, Ahlbin Centers also provides outpatient services in Bridgeport, Shelton, Fairfield's Southport neighborhood, Stratford and Trumbull. Services include physical, occupational and speech therapy as well as childhood early intervention and geriatric rehabilitation programs.

Submitted by Bridgeport Hospital