Nedra’s in the drivers seat
TEARS rolled down the teaching staff's faces when they saw colleague Nedra Sander (45) drive her new vehicle into school, on the first day of the third term.
Diagnosed a C5 quadriplegic, Nedra has limited movement in her arms and none in her legs. She sustained injuries to her upper vertebrate in a diving accident at Ansteys Beach in 1995 and is now confined to a wheelchair.
Not succumbing to her disability, she was determined to get back to work. After under-going rehab in Cape Town, she was introduced to St Raphael’s School principal, Errol Peffer. Having previously taught at an able-bodied school, teaching at St Raphael’s was a new challenge to her.
“Teaching at the school was hard at first. I was getting over my own disability and seeing the children with their own disabilities was hard,” she said.
A creative arts, computer studies and life orientation teacher, she has been teaching at the school since 1997. Described as a feisty, fun-loving and sharp tongued woman with more rhythm in her neck and shoulders then some of her colleagues by Aradhna Seosunker, Nedra has become an inspiration to many of the staff and pupils.
Her five-year dream of driving became a reality earlier this year. With the help of Johan Cillier of Easy Drive, her car was imported into the country at the end of last August. After under going numerous modifications to accommodate her disability, the car was ready for her in May.
In preparation for driving, she started hand cycling and lifting small weights to increase her strength.
Many were astounded when she drove into school on 15 July. Many of the pupils were in awe of her achievement as they did not believe she could do it. Intrigue was the order of the day, as pupils wondered how she drove the vehicle. Taking them through the steps and procedures she performs, she has given many of them hope that they too can become capable drivers. She drives herself and a colleague from Pinetown to Yellowwood Park everyday. “I am normally a frantic passenger, but with Nedra I am very calm and I trust her driving,” said her passenger, Lauren Botha.
School principal, Errol Peffer said: “Nedra is an outstanding teacher with a lot of integrity. She is respected by the pupils and the staff. She is a true inspiration to me.”
A learner drive, Nedra has set her focus towards becoming a fully-licensed driver in October.
“I especially thank Johan Cillier, family, friends and colleagues for their support it means a lot to me,” she said.
Even though she has conquered many obstacles, she still needs help with many things such as putting her clothes on, eating and bathing. “I take everyday as it comes. It’s important to make every moment count and have no regrets.” She jokes that maybe one day she will write a book about her experiences.