I was injured in a motorcycle accident on 5/23/24, and my level of injury is T3 complete. Before my injury, I enjoyed riding my motorcycle, snow skiing, and spending time with my family. My wife and three children have been my most significant support system. I would spend a lot of time taking kids to practices, going snow skiing, and watching their games.
My family motivated me to do my best in rehab so I could take care of myself and help with the family again. Being able to drive was very important so I could take myself to my appointments and take the kids to practices and games again. I wanted to fully participate in family activities to the best of my ability.
I was able to leave rehab 11 days early. I needed to be with my family again, so I busted my butt while I was in rehab. While doing outpatient rehab sessions, I learned to get on the floor and back in my chair. If I fall backward in my chair, I can get it back up while in it. One of my favorite challenges was going up 6″ curbs. These were all fun challenges for me. I like a challenge, and it motivates me to try and master whatever I do.
A doctor I had in the ICU told me something that has stuck with me: ” You can’t see where you’re going if you’re always looking back.” Now, I play pickleball and attend Creating a New Normal (CANN) meetings once a week. CANN is an educational support group for those going through inpatient rehab at MetroHealth Medical System. Thanks to 3Trackers of Ohio, I am now learning how to monoski, which is an adaptive way of snow skiing.
“They gave me wheels to ride wheelies and roll around on. What more could I ask for… I get to keep on rolling!”
