Garin’s back in the game

May 1 2008 by Claire Rees, Rhymney Valley Express

RUGBY-MAD Garin Vivian was forced to watch his brothers play from the sidelines after he was struck with a deforming joint condition.

But now the 15-year-old from Cefn Hengoed is tearing up the pitch on the outside half just five years after becoming well enough to leave his wheelchair.

The Lewis School Pengam pupil has just been selected to play for the Newport Gwent Dragons Under 16s.

Yet his family were unsure he would ever play sport again after being diagnosed with Perthes disease at the age of seven.

The rare condition causes deformity of the hip joint and left Garin in a wheelchair and in plaster from hip to ankle for two years.

Youngsters often make a recovery but can require a hip replacement in later life, but Garin’s mam said his has been a full one.

“He had a frame between his ankles and after that he had months of physiotherapy but months after tests showed he was better, he was playing for his primary school, Derwendeg,” said Elaine Vivian.

Brothers Owain, aged 19, Dafydd, aged eight, and Ieuan, aged 12, are all keen rugby players and eldest Owain plays for Bedwas RFC.

“It was heart-breaking to see him have to watch Owain play,” said Elaine.

“He’s such an inspiration.

“I think rugby has helped his recovery – he’s been very brave.”

The family thanked Mal Pratton, who coaches Rhymney Valley Under 15s and nominated Garin for a place on the Dragons.

He is already in training and begins matches in November.

Garin said: “I’m really chuffed.

“I’ve always been enthusiastic about playing rugby – I love everything about it.

“I’d love to play for Wales one day but who knows?”