TBPI careers

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TBPI means new career? Guest: punchy sue Posted: Oct 12, 2003 5:02 PM [ Delete ]
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I was just wondering what kind of careers some of you TBPI people got into after your accident if the injury conflicted with you previous career. I was a chef for 7 years, a massage therapist for 4 years, and have my bacholers degree in Biology. I have no clue what I should persue now. Everyone keeps saying teacher, but I'm not sure that's my calling. So I just wanted to know what some of you did? We all need an income to survive. Who hires one handed professionals?
THANX LOVE SUSAN


Re: TBPI means new career? Henry Posted: Oct 12, 2003 6:35 PM [ Delete ]
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Hi Susan,

I was a metalurgy lab tech / time keeper. I went back to school and got my phd in English lit. I taught at a couple of universities and started an online technical writing service with a friend. I did that for a few years and then started with my current company as a technical writing team leader. That went to full manager of the tech team and translations and now I'm adding training to my responsibilities.

My one handedness is indirectly responsible for my being here, but my career has nothng to do with being one handed.b

There is a lot out there, so take your time to find something that you like.

Good luck.

Henry

Re: TBPI means new career? Guest Posted: Oct 12, 2003 7:17 PM [ Delete ]
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Henry

I know the opportunities are endless for me with one or two hands. For the moment I need some sort of occupation that I can use to pay the bills. I guess it is my own insecurities about who would hire me with my new condition, more so then what type of jobs I can do. I guess I'm just looking for inspiration. I don't think that's so self-pitying.
THANX SUSAN

Re: TBPI means new career? punchy sue Posted: Oct 12, 2003 7:42 PM [ Delete ]
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Henry

Hi, I have the worst time getting messages up on the forum boards. I think you're right in the fact that there is a lot of job opportunities out there for me with one or two hands. I guess the dilemma now is that I need to make money to live. It's probably more my problem feeling like a handicap than employer's view of me as an useless employee. I guess I just need some ideas and encouragement. What was your first move to work again. I don't know if I have enough money to go back to school again. I don't even know where to start.
THANX FOR YOUR RESPOSE HENRY
LOVE SUSAN

Re: TBPI means new career? Francine_Litz Posted: Oct 12, 2003 8:12 PM [ Delete ]
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hey punchy sue....

why stop doing massage therapy? you can switch to something like Barbara Brennan healing or Reiki - or some other kind of energy work...

but you do have to watch out for overuse syndrome when doing anything one-handed...

so whatever you choose to do - see someone who works with postural issues - like Alexander technique therapist or Feldenkrais therapist to make sure you are using your body in the healthiest way...

francine

Re: TBPI means new career? Guest: Lisa Posted: Oct 12, 2003 11:36 PM [ Delete ]
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Very good question there punchy sue..we had the same thoughts as well,my boyfriend is having shoulder fusion done on Thursday and we r wondering what the future holds for us regarding work...his line of work is a farmhand which is quite hard labour...which i would say he will never get back too and as far as office work it aint for him...He's a very outdoors person.. we r very lucky though cause of him being in motor vechile accident..here in Australia we have a company called the Transport And Accident Commission which have payed for his wages since being off work (which has been 18 mths)they pay for all transport to and from doctors and will do all his rehab and try and get him back into workforce...If it wasnt for them i really dont know how we would be coping...

Re: TBPI means new career? ipeverywhere Posted: Oct 12, 2003 11:59 PM [ Delete ]
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Hi,
I figured out how to use a one handed keyboard so I could keep up
with my co-workers. Other then that I'm still doing the same thing
I've always done, computer networking.

I often think about doing something else or if I had been doing something
else before my injury how would I adjust to doing something differently.
Guess I'll never be a motorcycle mechanic now. For the most part I don't
think there is really anything I couldn't do one handed. Also, you should
not think employers will look at you differently. My experience has been
people (employers included) see you for who you are. If you go out of
your way to hide your injury they think somethings wrong. If you go in
there without noticing your injury, they probably won't either.

Re: TBPI means new career? Christopher Posted: Oct 13, 2003 2:28 AM [ Delete ]
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Susan,
I know what you mean. I was an actor out here in Los Angeles for the last dozen years. My struggles with that were looking very good,at least until my accident. And all my plan B career choices in case things didn't work out with acting are wiped out as well, since my love of working with my hands has been destroyed. I'm still in the recovery stages from corrective surgeries, but I can't help but thinking, 'what the hell am I going to do now!'
I know I can make money if I want to, with real estate and real estate development. But unfortunately the only part of that I truely enjoyed was working with my hands and making something better than it was before and improving nieghborhoods. I've fallen into a slump, not knowing what I'll do that I truely enjoy. Maybe that's a luxurious mindset to some people, but that's the only way I know how to live, or want to live. If I can't do all the athletic/adventurous things to keep my happy outside of working, work better be something I love to be doing. When I find the answer, I'll let you know.

Re: TBPI means new career? Guest: punchy sue Posted: Oct 13, 2003 7:36 AM [ Delete ]
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Christopher

You really summed up one of my biggest concerns to finding a new career. I hate office work. I can't stand florescent lighting or copier machines, or office cubicals. I want a job where I move around and don't look at a computer all day long. I have never owned a computer. I am rehabing at my parent's house and this computer is in the office room that I sleep. I have never e mailed anyone until three months ago. I know there's a job out there for me, but I still wwould like to hear other TBPI work solutions.
THANX LOVE SUSAN

Re: TBPI means new career? Guest: Karl Phillips Posted: Oct 13, 2003 12:02 PM [ Delete ]
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Susan,
My job was Chief Engineer at a high rise bldg. As an engineer we are required to maintain all the mechanical systems within the bldg.(hvac,plumbing,electrical,etc.) So after my bpi, I figured that was it, can't do that any more. But it turned out that they wanted to keep me. It took a while to get over my broken hip (3 mos. in a wheel chair). But after that, I went back to work. And after I got my strenght back, I started to adapt. I use my sling as a tool pouch, man purse, all kinds of stuff. Everyone at the bldg. is pulling for me, which really helps. They now know I will need surgery if I want any more fuction out of my arm. I'm trying to set up surgery asap. But if my arm stays just as it is, they still want me around. I know other people are not as fortuate as I am. Good luck in your quest.Chow, Karl.

Re: TBPI means new career? KGGUNNS Posted: Oct 13, 2003 3:56 PM [ Delete ]
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HI SUE,
I WAS JUST GOING TO ASK THE SAME QUESTION. I STILL DON'T KNOW THE EXTENT TO MY INJURY BUT IT HAS BEEN 6 WEEKS NOW AND STILL NO CHANGE. I HAVE BEEN FEELING RATHER NERVOUS THIS WEEKEND ABOUT MY FUTURE AND WHAT IT HOLDS FOR ME. I AM STAYING WITH MY PARENTS NOW UNTIL THIS INJURY GETS BETTER OR UNTIL FURTHER NOTICE. I WAS AN EXECUTIVE SECRETARY AND ALSO CERAMIC TILER WHERE BOTH CAREERS USE MY HANDS. I HAVE NO IDEA WHAT IS GOING TO HAPPEN. IT IS A SCARY PLACE TO BE.
THANX SUE FOR ASKING BEFORE ME. KAREN

Re: TBPI means new career? EllenB Posted: Oct 13, 2003 6:34 PM [ Delete ]
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For what it's worth in the U.S., government or government contractors are required to hire a certain percentage of people considered disabled. Might be some jobs out there within that sector that would still appeal (such as some kind of outside work). Good luck!

Ellen

Re: TBPI means new career? Suzie Posted: Oct 13, 2003 6:43 PM [ Delete ]
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Hi Karen! Hi Susan!!

This is Suzie--both of you seem to be articulate, caring, FUNCTIONAL young women, with a lot to offer----I think you both could be GREAT teachers for middle school or high school aged children!! We (I say this as the mom of 2 teenage daughters) deperately need smart, strong, motivated teachers who are good role models for that age group--you both have stories to tell, and life experience to use to get thru to this age group--and you're not so removed from them age-wise to not understand them!! I know in Maryland, there is something called a Hope Scholorship, which will pay $5000 per year toward school, if you agree to teach in Maryland for each year that you receive the scholorship--check into that in your areas--or come here to Maryland to study!!---wish I had that kinda deal when I was in school--would have been a teacher instead of a nurse!! Anyway, there is my 2 cents worth, for whatever it's worth--hope you both are doing ok--think about you and check the board often to get updates on your conditions!! Take care!!
~~~~~~~Suzie~~~~~~~~

Re: TBPI means new career? Henry Posted: Oct 13, 2003 7:18 PM [ Delete ]
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Hi Susan,

I was lucky in that my bpi was the result of a motorcycle crash. Insurance, long term disability, and a settlement kept me afloat while I went back to school. I also underwent a series of aptitude tests to determine what I could do. However, none of them are even remotely linked to what I do now.

It may be hard to believe right now, but there is very little that cannot be done with one hand and a little imagination. I beieve that there is a bpi Harley mechanic in Florida who does modifications, and from my own experience I know that there is little I cannot do.

I don't know what there is available for you, but I suggest contacting your doctor for career rehab, as well as local and provincial/state agencies. |There are lotsa one armed people out there earning a living. Good luck.

Henry

Re: TBPI means new career? jennyb Posted: Oct 13, 2003 7:53 PM [ Delete ]
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Hi Susan
I'm with Henry on this one, it might not seem like it now but there is very little that can't be done with one arm. Over on the tbpi uk site we have a bricklayer, a guy who is winning championships KoKart racing, I have read about a guy who trained as a nurse, a girl who did her chef training (have you tried seperating eggs yet one handed-it's very easy but always impresses people!). I did my time in a bank (and I'm so with you on the office jobs thing, I hated it) but now I am a full time mum of 3 and I run a riding school on the weekends as well as riding horses myself, running, swimming and climbing.
Future employment is one of the biggest issues faced by newbies, we asked some of our posters about it and here's what they said http://tbpiukgroup.homestead.com/faq_3wrk.html the info at the end about training schemes and disability rights applies to the UK only.
Hope this helps :0)

Re: TBPI means new career? jacko Posted: Oct 18, 2003 12:06 PM [ Delete ]
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I went back to being a teacher after my BPI. I teach secondary school (high school) mathematics and art. All I had to do was learn 2 things: how to carry on teaching when the spasms of pain hit me, so that the kids didn't notice; and how to write on the whiteboard / blackboard / overhead projector with the "wrong" hand. If I need a pile of books or other stuff carried, there are always children willing to help, bless their little cotton socks.

I also do welding as a hobby, but I know I could do it as a job if I had to. It doesn't have to be structural stuff... how about welded sculptures ?




Re: TBPI means new career? Guest: null Posted: Oct 19, 2003 4:51 PM [ Delete ]
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Henry,

I really think you have a good way at looking at a crappy situation. My biggest fear is what kind of career can I start that I can freak out in a pain spasm dance. We all have them, especially in the beginning, it starts in the hand then "Saturday Night Fever" up to the elbow where it Do-Se-Do,s back to the wrist to perform the perfect breakdance wave under the armpit to do the funky chicken and then Freeze!
Miracuously, I divert everyone's attention from my pain spasm dance, and in the meantime, hide my face which has it's own bloody hell jig of it's own.I feel I Have slim pickings on future careers. Maybe I make one up of my own.
THANX LOVE SUSAN

Re: TBPI means new career? Henry Posted: Oct 20, 2003 8:52 PM [ Delete ]
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Hi Susan,

Distraction of work usually keeps the pain at bay, but when I can't keep it quiet, I head for a quiet spot or close the door to my office. I have a number of trusted colleagues who handle it very well and let me walk it off or excuse myself quickly.

Making your own career is not a bad idea. I sorta did that with my technical writing. I taught myself and then started the business which led to my current career as the brilliant, albeit overworked, Manager of Technical Publications and Training.

Work to your strengths. But give yourself time.

Henry

Re: TBPI means new career? Guest: suzanne Posted: Oct 23, 2003 2:26 PM [ Delete ]
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Well I was television photojournalist/editor before my accident (RTBPI). There was an attempt on my behalf to find equipment for me allowing me to shoot with my left hand after the accident. All cameras are made for right handed people. That never came to fruition so I am now an editor. It requires me to use a keyboard, shuffle tapes, meet deadlines, use a computer. It's different every day. It is very demanding but I could think of a lot worse things to do!

Re: TBPI means new career? RottieJan Posted: Sep 27, 2005 3:42 PM [ Delete ]
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hi susan,

not sure about timelines on these posts as the main board says current date and these all say 2003! anyhoo...

great questions, ones i'm still asking myself after 3 years (3rd year anniversary coming up in november).

i was also an exec. secretary and have no clue what to do now. i did have a part time job briefly answering phones but it was too much writing/typing and my good hand was getting over worked.

this past year, i started an all breed dog rescue with some friends and, while i enjoy it, the only "pay cheque" i get is seeing a dog placed into a loving home - wonderful for the heart but not so good for the bills & expenses.

i'm thinking of asking the provincial government to pay for me to retrain and then i want to open (don't laugh!) a doggie day care centre! pipe dream? maybe.
however, i need to get out of my depression first (totally other topic!), then kick my butt into school & investigating what my options are.

i've been lucky in that i DO get disability cheques from both the provincial & federal governments but it's barely enough to keep my head above water.

good luck. people here are wonderful and always have great ideas!

jan

Re: TBPI means new career? herff94 Posted: Jan 7, 2006 11:22 PM [ Delete ]
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Something to check out~
I live in McHenry County Illinois and my father-in-law worked for the county goverment and part of his job was to train or retrain people to get back into the working world. In Illinois there are funds set up to help people, like us, to go back to college. Of course there are requirements, but it is worth looking into in the state you live in. My accident happened when I was 17, no college, of course. Married at 24 and now I am 36 and have 4 children. NOW, its time to go back to school. I am slowly getting back into college, going into Education. Kids are a great distraction. I would know I have 4!!!! Hopefully, with my father-in-laws help, my schooling will be paid for. Call your local goverment center and ask. Can't hurt! Good luck to all..............
Kath in Chicago

Re: TBPI means new career? njbirk Posted: Jan 8, 2006 6:38 AM [ Delete ]
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We may need to take this thread down unfortunately. The spammers must have put it into a program so that it posts continuously. I just deleted 6 posts advertising about casino gambling online.

That is why there are so many posts and you can't read them. We have been steadily deleting them, but it is getting a bit old at this point and it keeps this thread at the top of the forum without any substantive new post.

Nancy Birk
UBPN President

Re: TBPI means new career? herff94 Posted: Jan 8, 2006 4:50 PM [ Delete ]
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How sad!!!!!

Re: TBPI means new career? Christopher Posted: Jan 8, 2006 11:57 PM [ Delete ]
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Why not copy and paste it in it's entirety into a new post. And then delete it...? Just a thought, I assume it would work, but I aslo know what happens when you assume...