#CasualDay: Wheelchair-bound dancer strives to achieve success

DESPITE being left paralysed after an accident 10 years ago, Kyle Bowles believes living with a disability does not mean inability.

Bowles (35) of Treasure Beach is a wheelchair-bound dancer and performs for Dance Movement, a project administered by the non-profit organisation, Wentworth Arts and Culture Organisation (WACO).

“Being disabled will not stop me from achieving my dreams and goals. I strive for independence every day. I challenge myself constantly to prove to myself and others that I am able to do anything and everything that I used to do before my accident and to go forward in life,” he said.

Also read: #ShareASmile and win! Join the Casual Day 2023 Caxton Photo Competition

Bowles, a remote market researcher, said he was left paralysed following a scooter accident while on his way to work on November 24, 2013.

“It started to rain, and the scooter slipped on the railway tracks in Maydon Wharf. I lost control of the scooter and slid across the road. My back hit the rear wheel of a parked truck. I crushed the T12-L1 vertebrae of my spine instantly, which led to me losing complete feeling and movement from the hips down.

“I was unaware of the severity of my injuries at the time, and it was only after my spinal fusion operation that I was informed that my chances of walking again were uncertain. My family and I kept hope for many years that I would walk, but over time, we realised that my life and mental well-being were more important, so we strived instead for independence. I challenge myself at every opportunity to be as independent as possible,” he said.

Bowles said he was approached by Jarryd Watson, an artistic director and founder of Dance Movement, to participate in his inclusive dance programme with nine other wheelchair-bound dancers last year.

“We met at a local store, and he asked if I would be keen. I was hesitant at first, but the moment I joined that first class, I realised I loved dancing again as this was something I had always been nervous about since my accident. Jarryd is an amazing choreographer and always pushes us to do the unthinkable and show our full potential. I am thankful for the opportunity he has given me in dancing and for his friendship.

“Dancing has also given me the unique opportunity to express myself and to represent the struggles and the abilities that disabled people have that need to be recognised. Dance Movement has also assisted me with an additional part-time income that my family and I are very thankful for as many disabled/inclusive sports and arts are not funded as they should be,” he said.

Bowles said he had the opportunity to perform at various events over the past year. “I have performed for Dance Movement at several venues, including the Durban Playhouse. I also performed at the 10th Durban Dance Movement Festival in July.

“It is always nerve-wracking before a show, but once we get on stage and start our dance, I have this need to show the crowd what I can do, and that drives my confidence throughout the performance,” he said.

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The father of one said he was grateful for his strong support structure.

“Life is never fair or easy, but having a positive support system, be it friends or family, who want to see you independent and successful, is very important. My family members are my biggest motivators and inspiration. My wife, Melissa-Jane, has made sacrifices in our marriage that no wife should have to make, and she has never made me feel lesser than or incapable. She keeps me going, pushes me to try new things and makes sacrifices to ensure that I am able to do anything that I put my mind to.

“Our son, Malachi, who is 11, was diagnosed with autism two years after my accident and has his own challenges which is why I cannot give up. I need to be an example and show him that he can do anything,” he said.

Bowles added his advice to others with a disability – to stay positive and focused. “Focus on becoming independent so when opportunities arise, you can perform with minimal assistance.

“Lastly, you are not your disability – focus on what you can do and be the best you can, taking it one day at a time, and celebrate the joys and accomplishments in life, no matter how small they are,” he said.

The National Council of and for Persons with Disabilities’ (NPCD) national director, Therina Wentzel, said that a smile can trigger a positive chain reaction of wonderfully uncontrollable proportions.

“Casual Day has raised over R404m since 1995, thanks to the wonderful support of members of the public who purchase their stickers from participating retail stores, participating companies, our 600+ beneficiary NPOs and schools that renew their participation every year. The proceeds go to persons with disabilities at schools, homes and workshops represented by the participating beneficiary organisations,” Wentzel added.

In support of Casual Day, individuals and organisations are encouraged to purchase Casual Day stickers (R20 each) and specially branded merchandise and to wear them with pride today, September 1. Visit www.casualday.co.za to find out where purchases can be made or to order personalised stickers.

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