Wheelchair User Inspires Hope Through Motorbike Passion

Brett Ladbrook, a 56-year-old wheelchair user, demonstrates resilience and hope in the face of adversity. After a motorcycle accident in Ponsonby in 1985 left him with a spinal injury, Ladbrook has dedicated his life to inspiring others who face similar challenges. His message is clear: “If you put your mind to it, you can do anything. Life doesn’t stop after a spinal injury.”

At just 16 years old, Ladbrook’s life changed forever when he sustained his injury. He was riding his motorcycle when a truck crossed into his lane, forcing him to swerve. The impact of the crash left him unable to walk, and he struggled to come to terms with the reality of his situation. “It was a pretty devastating moment and hard to take in at 16,” he recalls.

Finding Hope and Independence

After spending three days in Auckland Hospital, doctors informed him he would not walk again. Yet, his time in the Spinal Unit proved transformative. Observing others with spinal cord injuries living fulfilling lives sparked a sense of hope in him. “Seeing other guys that had been using chairs for a while, they were getting on with their lives working, playing sport, driving cars,” he says. “It was like a light at the end of the tunnel… a moment of hope.”

Ladbrook’s passion for motorbikes reignited his drive to reclaim independence. Within a year of his accident, he was back on the road, riding a specially adapted motorbike that accommodates his wheelchair. “There’s nothing like the feeling of riding on the open road. It’s full freedom,” he states. His motorbike has three wheels and includes a sidecar to transport his wheelchair, allowing him to enjoy the thrill of riding once again.

His participation in events like the annual Burt Munro Challenge in Bluff showcases not only his love for motorbikes but also his desire to connect with others. “People are intrigued, but their interest is always genuine and supportive,” he notes. These experiences have brought him immense joy, allowing him to embark on long rides that span several hours.

Promoting Safety and Preparedness

Ladbrook is acutely aware of the risks associated with motorcycling, particularly for those who may not adequately prepare after a period of inactivity. According to the Accident Compensation Corporation (ACC), there was a significant rise in motorcycle-related injuries in New Zealand, with active claims costing approximately $109 million in 2020. “Too many Kiwis wing it when the conditions improve and they get back on their bikes,” he warns.

James Whitaker, an injury prevention leader at ACC, emphasizes that spring is an ideal time for motorbike riders to reacquaint themselves with their bikes. He advises riders to ensure their motorcycles are in good condition and to consider participating in a Ride Forever coaching programme. “We want motorbike riders to celebrate their love of riding and get back on the open road,” Whitaker states.

For Ladbrook, helping others find their “moment of hope” has become a central part of his life. As a Peer Support worker with the NZ Spinal Trust, he offers guidance to those beginning their journey with spinal injuries. His advice is straightforward: “Never give up. Give yourself time for your body to heal and for your mind to adjust. If there’s something you want to do, someone else has already done it before.”

He believes that such life-changing accidents compel individuals to think differently, ultimately leading to new opportunities for fulfillment. “You can still have a great life,” Ladbrook assures. His story serves as a powerful reminder that resilience, passion, and community support play vital roles in overcoming life’s challenges.