Frederick Oliver, a Canadian resident, has set a Guinness World Record for the largest collection of Star Wars Lego sets after using Lego as part of his rehabilitation following hand surgery. Oliver, who worked as a construction laborer, underwent surgery for carpal tunnel syndrome in both hands in 1999. The surgery was unsuccessful, leaving him with limited hand movement for nearly a year.
During his rehabilitation, a doctor advised him to engage in activities involving small objects to help rebuild the fine motor skills in his hands. Instead of traditional options like painting toy trains or wood carving, Oliver chose Lego, a creative activity that reminded him of his childhood imagination.
Over the years, Oliver's Lego collection grew, and he built various Star Wars-themed structures. This not only helped him regain nearly 95% of his hand function but also fueled his passion for Lego. His basement is now filled with over 1,000 Star Wars Lego sets.
Last year, Oliver officially set a Guinness World Record with 993 sets. His collection has since grown to 1,051 sets, and he has reapplied for the record. Oliver believes that Lego has helped keep his imagination alive despite aging.
