Positive pair push boundaries of what it’s like to have a physical disability

Logan residents Peter Harre and Katie Franz are used to changing people’s perceptions of what someone with a physical disability can do. So they are used to the double takes and looks of surprise they get when they train at Pulse Fitness at the Logan PCYC.

Katie Franz and Peter Harre working out at the gym.

The pair, who both have a spinal cord injury and use wheelchairs, are Peer Support Officers at the Spinal Injuries Association.

As they sustained their injuries many years ago, they spend time with newly-injured patients at the Princess Alexandra Hospital’s Spinal Unit – the only spinal unit in Queensland.

“Because we’ve already experienced the many challenges faced by someone when they first sustain their injury, we offer a genuine voice of experience and also hope, that life goes on and it can still be extremely fulfilling,” Peter said.

“Having a spinal cord injury is not the end of the world.”

Katie, 30, echoes Peter’s sentiment and said “life is 10% what happens to you and 90% how you choose to react to it”.

“My outlook on life is extremely positive; I push the boundaries of disability on a daily basis and I want to inspire others through my role as a Peer Support Officer to adopt that same philosophy,” she said.

Katie has personal trainer qualifications and sees her own trainer each week for an intense weights session.

“There were concerns I wouldn’t be able to finish the practical aspect of my fitness diploma because I use a wheelchair, but I always find a way around any obstacle,” Katie said.

“I may not be able to stand over people while they do bench presses, but I can find alternative, uni-lateral exercises that are just as effective.”

Katie and Peter joined Pulse Fitness as the gym’s layout and equipment is accessible for people who use wheelchairs.

Pulse Fitness Centre Manager Deb McLachlan said the gym was steadily seeing an increase in the number of members joining who had a physical disability.

“We have several pieces of equipment that specifically cater for people with a disability. The upper tone machine is designed so people who use wheelchairs can do a range of weight-bearing exercises including chest press, bicep curls and shoulder press,” Deb said.

“Another machine called the grinder is like an exercise bike but instead using your arms, to build upper body strength.

“Pulse Fitness is also easily accessible, with entry via a ramp and disabled toilets inside.”

Spinal Injuries Association CEO Mark Henley said Pete and Katie’s regular interaction and rapport building with patients at the Spinal Unit was not only an opportunity for them to give practical advice such as easier ways of transferring from a bed to a wheelchair, but they also provided optimism that you could go on to lead a rewarding life following a spinal cord injury.

“Peter and Katie have clearly shown that using a wheelchair is no impediment to having a job, a family and enjoying exercise and other hobbies,” Mr Henley said.

“The entire Spinal Injuries Association is dedicated to assisting and empowering its 1,500 members throughout Queensland to live independently in their community.”