"Four Hours Four Wheels" a wheelchair relay race
The fourth edition of the "Four Hours, Four Wheels" took place on 8 September on a secure course around the Trauma and Rehabilitation Centre (CTR) of the Brussels University Hospital : a relay race in teams composed of patients, former patients and therapists. More than a race, this event was an opportunity for each patient to learn more about themselves, to discover new equipment through sponsors and to share a friendly moment with their therapists and other CTR staff.
Patients and therapists in the same team
"Four Hours, Four Wheels" (4h4w) is a relay race in teams of patients and therapists, organised by the Trauma and Rehabilitation Centre (CTR) of the H.U.B. In concrete terms, each team is made up of 7 to 10 people, including patients or former patients, who take part in the race in wheelchairs, go-karts, trikes or with any other mobility aid, as well as companions and a coach. This project is organised by a multidisciplinary medical and paramedical team that also takes part in the race (doctor, head of the occupational therapy department, occupational therapist, paramedical manager, head of the physiotherapy department, head nurse, handisport coach and head of the H.U.B. social service). In short, the different teams of the CTR are involved as and when necessary and certainly on the day.
More than a race, a moment of sharing
Sport obviously takes a prominent place but is far from being the only field of action. Participating in the creation of banners, supporting the teams... so many missions that bring together patients and staff members around the same project and the same objective: to give each patient a place. As Magaly Bartholomeeusen says, "4h4w is a unique event where everyone finds their place according to their abilities and skills. Beyond the sporting challenge, patients discover themselves and all, patients and staff, are part of the same team.
Exchanging and sharing a convivial moment, decontextualised from the hospital world, takes on its full meaning here. The presence of other non-healthcare professionals, close relatives and curious passers-by is also beneficial in order to encourage each patient to excel and do his or her best.
In practice
The relay race will take place on 8 September at the Traumatology and Rehabilitation Centre (CTR) of the H.U.B., located at Place Van Gehuchten 4, 1020 Brussels.
On the programme for the day:
9-11am: 3 scientific conferences for therapists and installation of sponsors and exhibitors
12.30 pm: opening of the team boxes
1pm: start of the first part of the race
2pm: break
2.30 pm: start of the 2nd part of the race
3.30 pm: final lap of honour and prize-giving
All the funds raised during this event will be used to purchase equipment for future events for the patients of the CTR-H.U.B