THE tenacity with which former Kawerau man Jim Savage has lived his life creates a story that needs to be told. This is the view of his former classmate Marcus Wilkins who put the proposal to Jim, got the go-ahead, then both funded and arranged the publication of his story.
No Such Word As Can’t has been written by Tauranga life historian Jenny Rutherford following many hours with Jim, now in his 80s. The result is the remarkable story of Jim, an MBE, a Paralympian, and the instigator of ground-breaking expeditions carried out by he and other physically disabled people. The book’s release was timed to coincide with the Paralympics in Rio de Janeiro, with all profit from sales going to the New Zealand Paralympic team.
The book tells of how five years after contracting polio at age 21 and losing the use of his legs, Jim ditched his crutches and began to adapt to life in a wheelchair. The move was followed by the beginning of what was to be a long involvement in wheelchair sporting events.
It was a turning point for Jim, and one he credits with marking the return of his confidence, and belief that he could still go on and achieve great things.
Living in Kawerau during these years with his wife Madeleine and their three children, Jim began shot put training in earnest. Discus, table tennis, bowls and other sports followed. Still working at the Kawerau mill at this point, every spare moment was spent training.
His dedication paid off, resulting in New Zealand representation in 1968 at the first overseas Paralympic Games, held in Tel Aviv. Attending along with Eastern Bay woman Eve Rimmer, the two were to form a sporting bond lasting many years. Jim went on to coach and mentor Eve as she became another of this country’s successful Paralympians. He also captained seven Paralympic and Commonwealth Games teams over the following years.
Jim’s experience in Tel Aviv inspired him to establish a stronger base for New Zealand disabled sportspeople. He was instrumental in developing many nationwide services to support the paraplegic community.
Locally, he and his family founded the Friendly Games in Kawerau, a regional annual sporting event which was to run for the next 21 years until it moved to Whakatane and became known as the Eve Rimmer Games.
His list of achievements is long. His work for the paraplegic community aside, Jim also served on Kawarau’s council for nine years, was an active fundraiser for hospice and Alzheimer’s, and even made time to cut firewood and generally support Kawerau residents that he saw as being in need.
Dreaming up the idea of paddling the Nile, the English Channel and Lake Titicaca in South America, Jim went on to found the Paraplegic Boat Team in 1981 and, along with others, brought many challenging expeditions to fruition.
In 1976, he was awarded an MBE (Member of the British Empire) for his services to the community and also the paraplegic movement.
Jim and wife Madeleine currently live in Tauranga with one of their sons. His story has been labelled “remarkable” by many. It is bound to inspire with its inherent message of grit, determination, and the courage that Jim is known for.
No Such Word as Can’t is available from Paper Plus from 29.95. Proceeds to the Paraplegic Association.
PARALYMPIC: Jim Savage competes at the 1972 Paralympic Games in Heidelburg, Germany. Inset, a more recent photo. Photos supplied
Lorraine Wilson