A Christchurch teenager who bravely battled through brain surgery has had his hard-earned independence stolen after his custom-built tricycle was taken during a routine grocery trip.
Fifteen-year-old Connor is still recovering from a brain tumour, which left him “locked-in” for seven months after surgery.
Since then, the New Brighton resident has been relearning how to use his body, a long and challenging journey that made his specialised trike a symbol of freedom and progress.
Connor on his trike, before it was stolen. Photo: Supplied.
On his usual Saturday ride, Connor stopped at Countdown New Brighton to pick up a few items.
But while he was inside the store, someone stole his trike.
His mother, Karen Duncan-Caley told chrislynchmedia.com Connor suffers from ataxia, a condition that affects his balance and coordination, meaning he needs a trike or walker to move around safely.
Karen Duncan-Caley with her son Connor. Photo taken on 2021 / ccc
“When he came out of the supermarket, he had no way to get home” Duncan-Caley said.
“He uses a trolley for stability inside the store and relies on his trike outside.”
The theft has robbed Connor of more than just a trike, it has taken away a crucial part of his independence.
“I’d really love to get the bike back for Connor. It’s really frustrating.”
Connor at the beach, captured in 2021 / Ccc
There have been reports of the stolen trike being ridden by a middle-aged man.
A witness described seeing someone who was tanned, wearing a grey vest or jacket, dark shorts, a white cap, and sandals.
The man was spotted just before 1pm at the traffic lights on Pages Road, heading toward Aranui from New Brighton.
The family is urging anyone with information to come forward and help return Connor’s essential mobility aid.
